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BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME OF THE
SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND
THE GIFT OF
HENRY W. SAGE
1891
Cornell University Library
DA 25.M2P16
Report on the Palk manuscripts in the po
3 1924 028 045 064 ...,..„
The original of tiiis book is in
tine Cornell University Library.
There are no known copyright restrictions in
the United States on the use of the text.
http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924028045064
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
REPORT
ON THE
PALK MUSCEIPTS
IN THE Possession of Mbs. Bannatyne,
OF Haldon, Devon.
LONDON :
PUBLISHED BY HIS MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE,
To be purchased through any Bookseller or directly from
H.M. STATIONERY OFFICE at the following addresses !
iMPEBiAi House, Kingswat, London, W.0.2, and
28, Abingdon Stbeet, liONDON, S.W.I. ;
37, Peteb Street, Manchester ;
1, St. Andrew's Crescent, Cardiff ;
23, Forth Street, Edinburgh ;
or from E. PONSONBY, Ltd., 118, Grafton Street, Dublin.
1922.
Price 12s. 6d. Net.
PRINTED IN GREAT BRITAIN,
HISTOEICAL MANUSCEIPTS COMMISSION.
REPORT
ON THE
PALK MANUSCEIPTS
IN THE Possession of Mrs. Bannatyne,
OF Haldon, Devon.
LONDON :
PUBLISHED BY HIS MA.TESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE.
To be purchased through any Bookseller or directly from
H.M. STATIONERY OFFICE at the following addresses ;
Imperial House, Kingswat, London, W.C.2, and
28, Abinodon Street, London, S.W.I. ;
37, Peter Street, Manchester ;
1, St. Andrew's Crescent, Cardiff ;
23, Forth Street, Edinburgh ;
or froni E. PONSONBY, I/td., 116, Grafton Street, Dublin.
1922,
Price 12s. Qd. Net. '
CONTENTS.
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . ■ iii
List of Calendared Documents . . . . . . Ixviii
Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . • • 1
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . ■ • 421
This report has been prepared for the Commissioners,
at the suggestion and with the co-operation of the India Office,
by Colonel H. D. Love, R.E. (retired), who has also compiled the
index.
It is suggested that for reference purposes it be numbered 74.
m
THE PALK MANUSCRIPTS
IN THE POSSESSION OF MrS. BANNATYNE
OF Haldon, Devon.
The Palk Manuscripts in the possession of Mrs. Bannatyne
consist mainly of letters addressed to Sir Robert Palk from the
time when he relinquished the governorship of Madras in 1767
down to the end of 1786. They were written by all sorts and
conditions of people — governors, councillors, native princes,
naval and military officers, civil servants, native officials and
private persons. The majority of the communications were
sent from Fort St. George, Madras, but some are from other
parts of the Southern Presidency, some from Bengal, and a few
from Bombay. Written as they were in stirring times, most
of them before the publication of Indian newspapers was begun,
they are full of political and military intelligence, which is
imparted free from the restrictions and reservations imposed
on official correspondence with the Court of Directors. After
his return to England Palk aided several of his relations and the
sons of many friends to begin life in India by advancing money
to them and furnishing them with recommendations. All these
correspond with him, give their early impressions of the country,
and keep him informed of local events. The Palk Papers thus
supply many details of social life in India, regarding which
official documents are naturally silent. The collection contains
certain letters from Palk himself, most of which were addressed
to his friend William Martin Goodlad, one of the Secretaries to
the Government of Madras. On Goodlad's death these com-
munications were returned to their author, and were preserved
by him. There are a few papers anterior to 1767, the most
important of which is a letter of 1755 from Colonel Stringer
Lawrence, embodying a narrative of his campaigns against the
French.
After the elimination of a number of business papers, such
as Bills of Exchange and Respondentia Bonds, there remain
470 documents, the contents of which are described in sub-
sequent pages of this report. From 1767 to 1776 the corres-
pondence is copious. It diminishes in volume between 1777
and 1780, and from 1781 to 1783 there is scarcely an Indian
letter. In 1784 the tide flows again, but at the end of 1786
the correspondence terminates abruptly. That letters were
written and received during the period of scarcity is undoubted,
though their ultimate fate is unknown. Part of the original
collection found its way in 1894 to the British Museum., where
it is preserved in four volumes {Additional MSS. 34,685 — 88).
IV
The first of these volumes contains business documents of no
importance ; the second comprises Indian letters to Palk
of 1768 and 1769 with a few of later date down to 1774 ; the
third consists of duplicates of despatches from the Court of
Directors to the Government of Madras between 1762 and 1765 ;
and the fourth of copies of official letters from Fort St. George
to the Court from 1763 to 1767. The chief interest hes in the
second volume. Sundry letters from Robert Palk are to be
found in the Warren Hastings correspondence preserved in
the British Museum {Addl. MSS. 29,132— 94).(i'
Some knowledge of Palk's singular career is indispensable
for a thorough comprehension of the documents in Mrs.
Bannatyne's collection. The following brief sketch embraces
those members of his family who are mentioned in the
correspondence.
Robert Palk came of yeoman stock established at Ashburton,
Devon. The family homestead was Lower Headborough, the
first farm out of Ashburton on the road to Buckland-in-the-Moor,
and within half a mile of the town. In 1679 Walter Palk, of
Ashburton, left the reversion of his lands to his nephew Walter
(b. 1659), son of Thomas Palk.'^' This second Walter was
succeeded by his eldest son Walter (b. 1686), his other children
being Jonathan, Thomas and Grace. The third Walter married
Frances Abraham at Buckland-in-the-Moor, and had three
children, Walter {b. 1714), Robert {b. 1717), the subject of this
notice, and Grace. The fourth Walter married in succession
Thomasine Widdicombe, of Priestaford, Ashburton, her sister
Mary Widdicombe, and Mary Mugford, by all of whom he had
children. His brother Robert, afterwards Governor of Madras,
married Anne Vansittart, to whom reference will be made later,
and his sister Grace became the wife of Richard Welland.
Two of the Welland boys, nephews of Robert Palk, served in
India. Among the numerous offspring of the fourth Walter
were Walter {b. 1742), afterwards M.P. for Ashburton ; Robert
(b. 1744), who joined the Bengal civil service ; Thomas (b. dr.
(1) The Warren Hastings Correspondence contains 23 letters (excluding
duplicates) from Robert Palk, viz : —
Add. MSS. 29132 Letters dated 23 June, 1769 ; 23 Mar., 1770 ; 9 April, 1771.
■ 29133 ,, ,, 7 Ap., 1772 ; 8 Feb. f.nd 8 Ap., 1773.
29134 „ „ 22 Mar., 1774.
29135 „ „ 25 Dec, 1774.
29136 „ „ 4/21 Feb., 12 Ap., 19 Nov., 12 Dec. and 13
Dec., 177,5.
29138 „ „ 21 Dec, 24 Dec. and 28 Dec, 1776.
29140 „ „ 1 Mav, 1778.
29144 „ ,, 27 Mar., 1780.
29145 „ „ 20 Ap., 1780.
29149 „ ,, 30 May, 1781.
29154 „ ,, 26 June, 1782.
29155 „ „ 1 July, 1782.
29193 „ „ N.D. [cir. Nov., 1773].
All the above letters are to Hastings, excepting that of the 26th June 1782
which is addressed to Major Scott, Hastings's agent in England. The final volume
(Add. MSS. 29,103) contains also an undated letter from Robert Palk, jun. to
William Aldersey regarding the arrest of Nandkumar.
(2) Devonshire Wills, C. Worthy, 1896.
1750), who came to Madras a cadet, but was later transferred
to the civil service ; Grace, who married Nicholas Tripe ol'
Ashburton ; and Jonathan, vicar of Ilsington. Mention is
made also of two brothers, Lieut. Thomas Palk and Ensign John
Palk of the Madras army, who appear to have been grandsons
of one of Sir Robert Palk's uncles. They died together while
campaigning in the Northern Circars. Other Indian connections
of Sir Robert were Thomas Abraham, a Bengal civil servant,
who was a member of his mother's family, and several of the
Vansittarts, his wife's relations.
It is said that Robert Palk was born at Ambrooke, in the parish
of Ipplepen, which was the property of the Neyle family, but
the statement needs verification. Certain it is that he was
baptized at the Old Mission House, Ashburton, on the 16th
December, 1717. He received his early education at Ashburton
Grammar School, a very ancient foundation, matriculated at
Wadham College, Oxford, in 1736, and graduated three years
later. After being ordained deacon the Rev. Robert Palk was
appointed a naval chaplain, and in 1747 he accompanied
Boscawen's expedition to the East Indies as chaplain to the
Admiral. He arrived at Fort St. David in July, 1748, and was
present at the unsuccessful siege of Pondicherry. In November
news reached India of the Peace of Aix-la-Chapelle, but though
hostilities ceased, the fleet remained on the Coast. At the
beginning of the following year an incident occurred which
determined Palk's future career. The Rev. Francis Fordyce,
the Company's chaplain at Fort St. David, a notoriously
quarrelsome and ill-tempered nian, publicly insulted Robert
Clive, and blows were exchanged between them in the streets of
Cuddalore. An enquiry was held by the Governor and Council
with the result that Fordyce was suspended as being " a
meddling mischievous person." Palk was invited to enter the
Company's service as chaplain pending the approval of the
Directors, and the Admiral consented to his transfer. This
" very worthy and able Divine " assumed his new duties on the
1st April, 1749.
Meanwhile the Directors sent out the Rev. George Swynfen
as a second chaplain for the Coast, and though they approved
of Palk's appointment, decided that their own nominee should
be the senior. In October, 1750, the fleet sailed for Bombay
en route for England, and Palk accompanied it with the intention
of formally resigning His Majesty's service and obtaining a
regular engagement from the Company. On reaching Bombay
in March, 1751, he heard of Swynfen's death, and returned at
once to Fort St. David, where he was reinstated. Fort St.
George, which had been in the possession of the French from
1746, was restored in 1749, and in April, 1752, the seat of
Government was transferred from Fort St. David to Madras,
Palk accompanying the President and Council thither. In
December, 1751, the Directors, having heard of Palk's departure
VI
in the preceding year, but not of his return, nominated two
chaplains for the Coast, the Rev. Samuel Staveley and the Rev.
Thomas Colefax. The arrival of these gentlemen in June,
1752, left no vacancy for Palk. The Madras Government,
however, quickly found another place for him. The Consul-
tation Book for August contains the following : —
" The account of the army in camp having been kept in an
irregular manner, which creates confusion, 'tis agreed that the
Rev. Robert Palk be appointed Paymaster and Commissary
in the Field at the rate of 10s. a day salary and Rs. 5 a day
batta."
At this juncture Colefax died, and Palk continued to perform
clerical duties intermjttently in addition to his special work.
That work brought him into intimate relations with Major
Stringer I.awrence, who commanded the army operating against
the French in the southern districts. On two occasions, in
April, 1753, and May, 1 754, Palk was sent to the Court of Tanjore,
where he successfully negotiated with the Raja for aid in troops
and money ; and in January, 1754, he was deputed with Henry
Vansittart to meet the French commissaries at Sadras and
arrange a suspension of hostilities. No agreement was then
effected, but at the end of the year Palk and Vansittart went
to Pondicherry and returned with a provisional treaty of peace.
The Government of Madras were so well satisfied with Palk's
political work that they presented him with a diamond ring of
the value of 1,000 pagodas.
At this period Robert Orme, the future historian of the war
with the French in India, was a member of the Fort St. George
Council. The following extract from a confidential letter,
dated 26th October, 1755, addressed by him to John Payne,
one of the Directors, throws light on Palk's character and
duties : —
" Mr. Palk, a gentleman left in India by Mr. Boscawen and
made chaplain at St. David, was, at the time I left India,'i' in
high favour with Mr. Saunders : '2' he was one of his family.
It is long since this gentleman had thrown aside the learning
of ancient or Christian books to study the tempers of mankind,
in which he is indeed a great proficient, and as great a one in
adapting himself to them, I must say, with decency. His
character as a clergyman admitted him to the conciliation of
disputes, and where he did not succeed, his intentions were
rewarded with the graceful name of a Peace Maker. I had
pcrceiv'd various instances of his address in the management of
persons at variance with another, and suppressed what was my
rising sentiment in favour of the general one. Mr. Palk was
chose by Mr. Saunders to go to camp, under the name of a
Commissary design'd to retrench expences, but with the real
view of softning and managing Colonel Lawrence's warm and
(1) In 1753, «lien Ormc visited England in company with Clive.
(2) Thoijiiis Saundcr!^, Piesidcnt and Governor, fli-st at Fort St. David and after-
wards at Fort St. George, from Sept., 1750, to Jan., 1755.
Vll
sudden temper in the contests then subsisting between him and
Mr. Saunders. How well he fulfill'd this commission I would
willingly throw a veil over, but the facts are known to all, and
do not seem disaA'owed by himself. He received from Colonel
Lawrence most beneficial employs in the camp, and by his
means in other services, which have, in the time of my voyage,
set him independant in the world, with at least 10,doOL from
two he came with into India. And from a month after his
arrival in camp, Mr. Saunders receixed no further tokens of his
attention or respect. Colonel Lawrence became all in all with
Mr. Palk.
" The influence which I have above described Mr. Palk to
have over the greatest part of the community of which he is
the pastor shone forth eminently now in their notions of the
Governor. Mr. Palk blamed him : all the world did so too.
Mr. Palk gave witness to a more than heroick character in
Colonel Lawrence : he became immediately a hero of the first
order." 'i)
Lawrence and Palk met Nawab Muhammad Ali at Arcot in
August, 1755, and attended him at his triumphal entry into
his capital. In the preceding February the Directors had
nominated a Select Committee of eight members at Fort St.
George to communicate with their own Secret Committee on
military and political topics, and they settled that the first
vacancy should be filled by the Rev. Robert Palk. An opening
occurred at once by the death of Colonel Caroline Scott, Engineer
General, and Palk occupied it in September. In December,
however, the Court Avith accustomed vacillation decreed that
he should confine himself to Church work and be posted to Fort
St. David. On receipt of these instructions in 1756, Palk
announced his intention of leaving for England, but asked for
time to wind up his affairs. With the sanction of Mr. Pigot's
Government he remained at Fort St. George until August, 1 758,
exercising his various functions as chaplain, paymaster of the
forces and member of the Select Committee.
In company with Orme, Palk sailed in the Grantham, India-
man. The ship was captured by the French, who landed the
passengers at the Cape and released them on parole. Palk
reached England in 1759, bearing letters from the Nawab of
Arcot to the King and the Company. His personality, ability
and address produced such an effect on the Directors that they
penned the following lines in their despatch of the 15th
February, 1760 : —
" We have fixed upon Mr. Robert Palk to succeed Mr. Pigot
in the Government whenever it shall become vacant by the
resignation or decease of that gentleman, being fully convinced
his ability and experience will be of great service to the Company
both before and after his succession to the Government,
especially as affairs are at present circumstanced."
(1) Orme MSB., vol. 28, preserved in the India Office.
vin
On the 14th November, 1760, arms were granted to " Robert
Palk of Headborough in the County of Devon," '" and in the
following February he married Anne, daughter of Arthur
Vansittart of Shottesbrook Park, Berks., and sister of his old
friend and former colleague Henr}^ Vansittart, who had mean-
while become Governor of Bengal. Palk sailed in March, 1761,
with Major-General Stringer Lawrence as a fellow-passenger,
arrived at Madras in October, and took his seat as Third of
("ouncil Avith the duties of Export Warehousekeeper. On the
resignation of Governor Pigot on the 14th November, 1763,
Palk assumed the office of President, occupying the Chair until
the 25th January, 1767. His administration was popular
and comparatively peaceful, the chief events being the suppres-
sion in 1764 of Yusuf Khan's rebellion in Madura, and the
occupation of the Circars, followed by the Treaty of Hyderabad,
in 1766. Clive had obtained from the Mogul in 1765 a free gift
to the Company of the live coast districts north of the Kistna
which were known as the Northern Circars. They were ruled
by Nizam Ali, Subahdar of the Deccan, who had granted one of
them, the Guntur Circar, to his brother Basalat Jang. Brig.-
General John Caillaud, Lawrence's successor, took possession
of the districts without serious opposition in 1766. The Nizam
was naturall}^ aggrieved at his deprivation of territory, and
prepared to invade the Carnatic. Palk, a man of peace, deemed
it prudent to placate him, and Caillaud negotiated a settlement
at Hyderabad. By the Treaty of the 12th November, 1766,
the Madras Government agreed to pay an annual rent of eight
lakhs of rupees for the Circars, to leave Basalat Jang in possession
of Guntur for the term of his life, and to afford aid to the Nizam,
in the settlement of his own affairs. This last vague condition
led, after Palk's departure, to war with Haidar Ali.
Palk resigned the Chair to Charles Bourchier in January,
1767, and sailed for England in the Lord Camden, accompanied
by his wife and' two children, Anne (Nancy) born in 1764, and
Lawrence, so named after Palk's friend the General, born early
in 1766. The ex-Governor reached England on the 13th July,
1767, and was well received by both the King and the Court of
Directors'^' (No. 38). His long residence in India had enabled
him to acquire more than a competence. While placing the
interests of his employers first, Palk had not entirely neglected
his own. The fortune with which he retired was not all derived
from his official emoluments. As Paymaster of the Army and
the holder of a bullock-contract granted him by Clive, he had
had early opportunities of making money, and those oppor-
tunities increased with his advancement in the service. He was
interested in private trade, a practice which was recognized by
the Company. The custom of the time permitted the surrep-
(1) Polwhele's History of Devonshire, 1793 and 1797.
(2) British Museum, Addl. MSS., 34,685, Robert. Palk to " Jimmy " [James
Bourchier], dated — Nov., 1767.
IX
titious receipt of presents by all public servants who could
command them. Talk admits in one of his letters that he
accepted gifts of money from prospective renters of lands, but
he takes credit to himself for never having solicited a present.
The Nawab had much to gain from a Governor, and though
Palk resisted pressure to attack Tanjore, he rendered valuah)le
aid at Madura, and Muhammad Ali probably attested his
gratitude in the usual manner. The conclusion of treaties
* furnished other facilities. According to John Andrews, a
senior civil servant who was deputed in January, 1769, to
arrange terms w'ith Haidar, Palk received from the Nizam a
lakh of pagodas and Caillaud Pags. 60,000 for negotiating the
Treaty of Hyderabad of 1766.<i)
After visiting his relations in Devonshire Palk took a house
in Spring Gardens, and entered Parliament as member for
Ashburton. In 1769 he purchased the Haldon estate near
Exeter. The house had been built by Sir George Chudleigh
about 1720. After his death in 1738 the property passed in
succession to Sir John Chichester, Mrs. Basset, Mr. John Jones
and Mr. William Webber.'^' A friend writing to Palk in
December, 1769, congratulates him on the cheapness of his
purchase, and mentions that Mr. Webber had given Mr. Jones
11,500/. for it.'^' Palk made many improvements ; laid down
floors of Indian redwood, planted trees in the park, and gradually
acquired adjacent land. A daughter Catherine (Kitty) was born
to the Palks on New Year's day, 1768, and another, named
Emelia, in 1774. Both died during adolescence.
Though he never joined the Company's Directorate, Robert
Palk exercised influence on Indian affairs through Laurence
Sulivan and other friends. When not following the pursuits of
a country gentleman at Haldon he resided in London, where he
occupied a house in Park Place, St. James's, moving in 1775 to
Bruton Street. He re-entered Parliament in 1774 and represented
Ashburton until 1787. His friend Stringer Lawrence was
his frequent, if not permanent, guest until the General died
in London in 1775. Lawrence was buried in the church of
Dunchideock by Haldon, which contains a monument to his
memory. Palk commemorated him by erecting a turreted
and battlemented tower, triangular in plan, on the summit of
Haldon Hill, and within the park. It is known as the Belvidere.
The principal room on the lowest of its three floors contains a
marble statue of Lawrence, and mural tablets are inscribed
with a recital in English, Latin and Persian of his military
exploits. It was at Haldon House that a conference took place
in September, 1776, between Robert Palk, George Vansittart,
General Caillaud, Mr. Pechell and Colonel Macleane to discuss
(1) British Museum, Addl. MSS., 34,686, Charles Bourchier to Robert Palk,
dated 10th March, 1769.
(2) Polwhele's History of Devonshire, which contains a full-page engraving of
the mansion.
(a) British Museum, Addl. MSS., 34,680.
the conditions to be obtained from Lord North as the price of
resignation by Hastings of the office of Governor General.
On the 19th June, 1782, Robert Palk was created a baronet.
His only son Lawrence, after leaving Oxford, travelled on the
Continent. Some of the son's letters written in the course of
the tour have been preserved. During his absence from
England in 1786 his eldest sister Anne became the wife of Sir
Bourchier Wrey, Bt., and the youngest, Emeha, died. Lady
Palk expired in 1,788 at the age of 50. Her husband survived
her ten years. Sir Robert was buried in Dunchideock church, 'i>
but the remains were removed many 5'ears later to a vault
outside the building. A simple tablet near the monument to
Stringer Lawrence records the names of himself and eight
members of his family.
The documents in Mrs. Bannatyne's collection are calendared
at the end of this report. The earliest (No. 1) is an autograph
letter from Colonel Stringer Lawrence to Admiral Charles
Watson, Commander-in-Chief of the East India squadron, dated
Fort St. George, 8th October, 1755, embodying Lawrence's
" Narrative " of his campaigns of 1752-1754.. The letter,
which is bound in book form, contains 221 quarto pages of
manuscript. Admiral Watson, who had brought out Adlercron's
Regiment, the 39th Foot, in 1754, was at Madras on the date
of the letter, and he sailed two days later for Bombay on a
mission to suppress the pirates of the Malabar coast and destroy
the stronghold at Gheriah or Viziadrug of their chief Angria.
The narrative was perhaps handed to the Admiral by Lawrence
to relieve the tedium of the voyage. Other MS. copies of the
account exist, one in the King's Library of the British Museum, <2*
and one in the Orme collection at the India Office. '^i The
narrative was edited and pubhshed by R. O. Cambridge in his
Account of the War in India, and, as tliat work is accessible, it is
unnecessary to do more than indicate the principal variations
between Mrs. Bannatvne's MS. and the printed account {Vide
No. 1 in the Calendar "of MSS.)
Stringer Lawrence, the " Father of the Indian Army," was
born in 1698, and became an Ensign in Clayton's Regiment,
now the West Yorks. After twenty years' service, during which
he was actively engaged in Spain and Flanders and in the
Highland rising of 1745, he retired as Captain, joined the East
India Company, and at the age of 49 embarked for Madras in
February, 1747, to be Major of the Fort St. George garrison.
Madras having been captured by the French in 1746, Lawrence
landed, after a voyage of eleven months, at Fort St. David
(1) The church contains a monument to one of Sir Robert Palk's pi'cclecessors
in the Government of Madras, Aaron Baker, of Bowhay, who died in 1683. Baker
entered the Company's service as Factor in 1633, and after being President at
Bantam in Java from 1640, was transferred with the seat of government in 1652
to Fort St. George, where he ruled until 1655. His house at Bowhay, near
Dimchideock, is still standing.
(2) Brit. Mu8. MS. 195, attributed to Captain John CaiUaud.
(3) Orme MSS., vol. 13.
XI
where he was given a seat in Council. He reorganized and
disciplined the seven independent European companies, framed
a code of military law, and formed the body of native peons
into companies of sepoys. On the arrival of Boscawen's
expedition he commanded the Company's troops in the attack
on Pondicherry, when he was taken prisoner. Released at the
suspension of hostilities, he was one of the Commissaries appointed
to receive Fort St. George from the French, and on the transfer
of the Presidency to Madras he became Deputy Governor of
Fort St. David. In 1750 Lawrence resigned and went to Eng-
land, but the Directors induced him to return immediately
as Commander-in-Chief of all the Company's forces in India.
Landing at Madras in Rlarch, 1752, Lawrence took command
of the army proceeding to relieve Trichinopoly, where Muham-
mad Ali, the claimant supported bj'^ the British for the possession
of the Carnatic, was besieged by the French and their nominee
Chanda Sahib. Marathas, Mysoreans and Tanjoreans took part
in the conflict on one side or the other. The relief was accom-
plished, and within two months d'Auteuil had surrendered to
Clive at Valikonda, and Law to Lawrence at Srirangam.
Chanda Sahib fell into the hands of the Tanjoreans and was
executed. Further fighting took place near Pondicherry, de
Kerjean being defeated at Bahour. From April to November,
1753, Lawrence and his lieutenants. Major James Killpatrick
and Captain John Caillaud, were engaged in numerous actions
in the vicinity of Trichinopoly. At the battles of the Golden
Rock the French suffered defeat on three occasions. After
ineffectual negotiations for peace in January, 1754, the struggle
was renewed around Trichinopoly with varying fortime until
October, when a suspension of arms was agreed to. Peace
followed at the end of the year ; Dupleix was recalled, and
Lawrence received a commission as I/ieut. -Colonel from the King
and a sword of honour from the Company. Orme thus writes
of Lawrence in a confidential letter to Payne of 1755 : —
" Lawrence in his military command must have everything
dependant on his own will, or that will which, infused into him
by others, he is taught to think his own. He is accessible,
sadly accessible, from the side of his vanity, which indulges itself
in frequent and honorable commemoration of his exploits.
Every designing man under him had the recommendation of
himself in his own power by his behaviour to his General. No^v
amongst these some good, some very indifferent, got ascendancy'
over the old gentleman. These, all these, must be served and
promoted without restriction. The contempt which Lawrence
always expressed for lucrative ^'iews he verified in his own
conduct, altho' he saw not into other men, when his favourites,
acting from no other motives. His resolves are always violently
hurried on."*^'
■ On the cessation of hostilities Lawrence was superseded by
(1) Orme MSS., vol. 28, Orme to Payne, 26th Oct., 1755.
xu
his senior, Colonel John Adlercron, a newly arrived King's
officer, who remained in India three years. In 1757 war again
broke out between France and England. Lally captured Fort
St. David in 1758, and at the end of the year advanced on
Madras. Lawrence took charge of the defences and successfully
resisted a siege of upwards of two months. In April, 1759,
he ^'isited England for the recovery of his health, but returned in
1761 in company with Palk, and took his seat as Second of
Council with the rank of Major-General. From this time his
duties were administrative until his retirement in April, 1766.
He received a pension from the Company, an annuity from
Clive, and an annual grant from the Nawab of the Carnatic.
At his death in 1775 the Company erected a monument to his
memory in Westminster Abbey bearing the legend, " Discipline
established, fortresses protected, French and Indian armies
defeated, and peace concluded in the Carnatic." A portrait
of Lawrence in company with Nawab Mvihammad Ali hangs
in the Banqueting Hall of Government House, Madras. A later
picture by Gainsborough is in the National Portrait Gallery.
Other early documents preserved by Sir Robert Palk include
a lively letter (No. 2) from John Pye, one of the Navy agents ;
an order from the Crown (No. 4) based on the Treaty of Paris
of 1763 ; an apphcation (No. 5) in Latin from a Portuguese
missionary, and letters (No. 6) from the Nawab of the Carnatic
to the King and the Company.
On Palk's departure from India in January, 1767, the regular
stream of letters begins. The ex-Governor's principal corres-
pondents during Charles Bourchier's administration were the
new President himself, and his brother James Bourchier, a
prominent civil servant ; Colonel John Call, Chief Engineer and
member of Council, who was also a Field Deputy in the first
Mysore war ; William Martin Goodlad, the Civil Secretary, a
regular correspondent until his death in 1773 ; John Maxwell
Stone, the Secretary in the Military and Political Department ;
Nawab Walajah of the Carnatic ; Nicholas Morse, who was
Governor when Madras capitulated to the French in 1746, but
had since become head of a house of agency ; Josias Du Pre,
a member of the Council and Bourchier's successor ; Chokappa
Chetti, one of the Company's Merchants for the annual
" Investment " in the manufacture of cotton fabrics for export ;
John Pybus, who had been a volunteer with Clive in the capture
and subsequent defence of Arcot in 1751 ; George Smith, a free-
merchant ; Henry Brooke, a civil servant, who later had a share
in the deposition of Lord Pigot ; Thomas Palk, nephew of the
late Governor and a cadet of 1768, who saw active service in
Mysore but was afterwards transferred to the civil branch ;
Captain Thomas Madge, commanding a battalion of native
infantry in the Northern Circars, and Lieut. Thomas Palk, a
subaltern of Madge's corps and a distant cousin of Robert Palk.
Bengal news is communicated by George Vansittart and Robert
XUl
Palk, jun., the ex-Governor's brother-in-law and nephew
respectively. As time passes other Indian correspondents,
such as Warren Hastings, Alexander Wynch, Gilbert Ironside,
James Rennell, Henry Vansittart, jun., etc., come forward,
while letters from Laurence Sulivan in England throw light on
the character of a man who long exercised a potent influence over
the affairs of the East India Company.
Bourchier's administration was mainly occupied with the
Mysore war. His first letter to Palk deals, however, with a
domestic event. Mrs. Palk's brother George Vansittart and
Robert Palk, jun., both Bengal civil servants, had come down
from Calcutta to bid farewell to their departing relations.
There had arrived from England a little earlier a Miss Sarah
Stonhouse, daughter of the Rev. Sir James Stonhouse, who was
successively physician, clerk in holy orders, and baronet. The
young lady was a distant connection of Mrs. Palk and George
Vansittart, whose mother was Martha, daughter of Sir John
Stonhouse, an earlier baronet. The attractions of Miss Sarah
were considerable, and .James Bourchier, George Vansittart and
the younger Robert Palk all aspired to her hand. Vansittart
proved to be the successful suitor, and he went back to Bengal
an engaged man. James Bourchier was grievously disappointed,
and Robert Palk consoled himself at a later date with the lady's
younger sister I,ucia. Charles Bourchier, who deemed Sarah
artificial, writes (No. 21) a full account of the episode, apprehen-
sive that the elder Palk will not be well pleased with the
Vansittart-Stonhouse match.
The Mysore war is generally attributed to the Treaty of
Hyderabad, though Palk contests this view. The article relating
to British assistance for the Nizam was well understood to imply
military support against Haidar AH. The Marathas were pre-
pared to attack Mysore, and although no fornial agreement
with them subsisted, the three powers acted as confederates.
The Marathas under the Peshwa Madhu Rao were first in the
field and gained some success in the northern part of Haidar's
dominions. A British force assembled under Colonel Joseph
Smith, who was directed to unite with the Hyderabad army
commanded by Nizam Ali in person, and attack Bangalore
from the north-east. Haidar quickly sticceeded in buying off
the Marathas, and in inducing the Nizam to change sides. The
situation was thus completely altered. Instead of being one
of three confederates acting against Mysore, the British found
themselves alone against two allied powers. Haidar and the
Nizam entered the Carnatic'in August, 1767, and battles were
fought at Changama and Trinomalai in which the British were
victorious. Detached bodies of hostile cavalry, however,
plundered the country, and one of them under Tipu made a raid
on Madras itself in September. In December the Nizam's
dominions were threatened on the east by a British force from
the Circars under Colonel Simon Hart, It was joined by a
XIV
detachment from Bengal under Colonel Joseph Peach, who took
command. The approach of this body to Hyderabad so alarmed
the Nizam that he sent his minister and commander-in-chief,
Rukn-ud-daula, to Madras to sue for peace. A treaty was
signed on the 23rd February, 1768, by which the Nizam paid
an indemnity, while the annual tribute for the Circars was
reduced in amount.
Haidar then remained the only enemy. The British army was
formed in two divisions ; one under Colonel Joseph Smith, a
capable officer, was established at Kolar, while the other under
Colonel John Wood acted in the Baramahal. Smith's operations
were hampered by the interference of the Field Deputies, John
Call and George Mackay, but Wood was successful in reducing
fort after fort. On marching to rejoin Smith in Mysore Wood
fought a severe action at Mulbagal, in which both sides sustained
heavy losses. Bourchier summoned Smith to Council, and Wood,
who took command, displayed incapacity and met with a reverse
near Hosur. He was recalled in December, 1768, and was
subsequently tried by court-martial. Haidar penetrated into
the Baramahal and rapidly recovered his forts from the scattered
detachments left in them. Both sides, however, desired peace ;
Haidar through fear of the Marathas, and because he dared not
meet Smith in pitched battle ; the Madras Government because
of the ruinous cost of the war. Negotiations took place early
in 1769 without result. Haidar then entered the Carnatic,
which he laid waste with fire and sword. Smith, who had
resumed command in February, 1769, pursued him, but through
want of cavalry, was unable to bring him to action. By forced
marches Haidar reached St. Thomas's Mount, eight miles from
Madras, and intimated his willingness to negotiate, provided
Smith, who was close behind him, was ordered to halt. Josias
Du Pre, the second member of Council, met Haidar at the Mount,
and a treaty was signed on the 3rd April. The common asser-
tion is that the enemy dictated peace at the gates of Madras,
though the only dictation was the naming of the envoy.
Bourchier, it is true, feared for the safety of the Black Town, but
Haidar was far more afraid of attack by Smith, and if the latter
had been permitted to advance, the usurper would certainly
have decamped after doing as much damage as possible. The
terms of peace were moderate ; a defensive alliance between
the British and Mysore, and mutual restoration of conquests
and prisoners. Haidar refused to recognize Walajah as a party
to the treaty, nor would the Nawab assent to its terms.
The above outline will elucidate the descriptions and allusions
contained in the letters of the period. In a draft letter (No. 40)
addressed to Mr. S. — probably Thomas Saunders, who was
Deputy Chairman in 1767 — Robert Palk contends that the war
originated, not in the Treaty of Hyderabad, but in the inveterate
hatred which Haidar bore towards Muhammad Ali, and his
consequent enmity to the British as the Nawab's supporters.
His hostility was disclosed by his correspondence with the rebel
XV
•Yusuf Khan, which fell into English hands after the capture of
Madura in 1764 ; by his sowing disaffection among the poligars
ot linnevelly; and by his overtures to the Nizam in 1765, when
the latter was unfriendly to Fort St. George. Haidar was at
that time flushed with successes over the Marathas, and he
repelled the advances which Palk made. The Governor resohed
to obtain the alliance of the Nizam, and the treaty of 1766 was
arranged, which gave to the Company the peaceable possession
ot the Circars, It was then expected that a combined expedition
would quickly secure the passes into the Carnatic and confine
Haidar to Mysore. The scheme eventually developed, however,
into a design for his complete overthrow.
An important letter (No. 19) from Colonel John Call deals
with the opening phases of the war and the movements of the
troops of the three allies. Call considers the Nizam's action
half-hearted, and he justly apprehends that both the Deccan
ruler and the Marathas may come to terms with the Mysore
usurper. He thinks that a binding agreement to prosecute
the war to a successful termination should be made between
the allies, and he encloses a review of the situation with the
terms of a draft treaty framed by himself. He places no reliance
on the Marathas, and contemplates cooperation with Bengal
against them as soon as Haidar shall have been overthrown.
He goes on to narrate the measures taken by Government for the
suppression of the insurgent poligars in Madura and Tinnevelly,
and discusses arrangements for the payment of the Nawab's
debt to his private creditors. In a subsequent letter (No. 25)
Call refers to the irresolution of Nizam Ali and the successful
progress of the Marathas. Further letters from Call, dated 7th
August, 1768, and 26th June, 1769, will be found in British
Museum, Addl. MSS., 34.,686.
Letters from John M. Stone (No. 29) and John Pybus (No. 30)
describe the progress of operations. Tipu's raid on Madras
is mentioned (No. 35) by a native correspondent. Captain
Thomas Madge, who accompanied Colonel Hart's expedition
from the Circars, gives an account (No. 42) of the capture of
Khammamett, the arrival of Colonel Peach from Bengal, the
advance to Warangal and the submission of Nizam Ali. Lieut.
Thomas Palk, who was with Madge, refers (No. 59) to Colonel
Wood's successes in the Baramahal and his action with Haidar
at Mulbagal on the 4th October, 1768. He also alludes to the
tragic end of Captain Michael Gee, Colonel Smith's aide-de-camp.
About this time Lieut. Palk's cousin and namesake, Thomas
Palk,'i> arrived from England. An account of his voyage is
given in a letter (No. 49) to his uncle Robert Palk, who was at
first unsuccessful in obtaining a writership for him. Tom Palk
was permitted to join Colonel Smith's division of the army at
Kolar, and was placed under the care of Captain Hector Mackay.
(1) This Thomas Palk will, in accordance with his uncle's practice, be hence-
forward designated Tom Palk to distinguish him from his cousin.
XVI
He relates (No. 55) his experiences with zest, and mourns the
death of his mentor, who was killed during Colonel Wood's
unsuccessful assault of the hill fort of Mulbagal on the night of
the 3rd October. Nicholas Morse laments (No. 61) the heavy-
cost of the war. He thinks it possible that Haidar may be
driven to apply to his late enemies the Marathas for aid, but
trusts that " those locusts may not appear in the Carnatic."
Haidar's troops, however, required no assistance in ravaging
the land, and W. M. Goodlad draws (No. 69) a melancholy
picture of its condition ; "all the country to the southward
entirely laid waste ; not an hutt or inhabitant to be seen for
sixty miles together, so terrible have been, and still are, the
devastations of the enemy's horse." Haidar's unexpected
appearance at the Mount and the consequent terms of peace
are commented on by Madge (No. 71), Du Pre (No. 73),<i>
Goodlad (No. 79), and more fully by Governor Bourchier
(No. 78).
News from Bengal is supplied by George Vansittart, Resident
at Midnapur, and Robert Palk, jun. In April, 1767, they
allude (Nos. 23 and 27) to Ahmad Shah Abdali's victory over the
Sikhs, and his advance, on Delhi with a large army of Afghans.
It is expected that he will be joined by the Nawab Vizier of
Oudh, Shuja-ud-daula, and that the Emperor, Shah Alam,
will be dethroned. These conjectures were not realized. A
British force moved towards Allahabad, and Shah Abdali retired.
By the end of the following year the English were again on good
terms with the Vizier, who consented to a reduction of his
army. Robert Palk, jun., who had entered the service in 1763,
found himself in trouble five years later. Appointed paymaster
for barrack construction at Cossimbazar, he followed the
practice of his predecessor in overcharging the Company for
materials purchased, and when an investigation was ordered,
was rash enough to destroy his accounts. He was consequently
suspended pending the decision of the Company. Supported
by Governor Verelst'^' and aided by his uncle in England, he
was reinstated in 1770, when Government appointed him to
the Revenue Council at Patna (No. 101). The Directors
considered his nomination unsuitable (No. 136), and by their
command Palk was removed from Patna in 1772 ; but the
order was revoked, and he was restored in the following year
(No. 220). Meanwhile, on the 12th June, 1770, he had married
at Calcutta Lucia Stonhouse, daughter of the Rev. Sir James
Stonhouse and sister of Mrs. George Vansittart (No. 101).
A son was born in 1771 (No. 158), but Mrs. Palk died on the
22nd June, 1772, aged 25 years. 'Her tomb in the South Park
(1) In a letter to Orme of the 10th Juno, 1769, Bu PriJ expresses his views more
at length, ascribing the British failure to absence of cavalry, and consequent
inability to bring Haidar to action (Orme MSS., vol. 30). Du Pr4 might have added
to. the causes insufficiency of transport and interference by the Field Deputies
with the military command.
(2) Bril. Mus. Addl. MSS., 34,688. Harry Verelst to Eobert Palk, sen. 21st
Sept., 1768.
xvn
Street Burial Ground,*" Calcutta, bears an epitaph containing
live stanzas, one of which runs : —
" The tender pity she would oft betray
Shall be with interest at her shrine returned ;
Connubial love connubial tears repay,
And Lucia loved shall still be Lucia mourned."
About a year after his return to England Governor Palk
received a claim from one Rayalu Pant, otherwise called Rajah
Pandit, late Reiiter of the lands and villages of San Thom^ by
Madras and of Devikota in the Tanjore country, for the refund
of money gifts made by him, on the ground that his contract
had been annulled. Palk writes .(No. 70) to his friend Goodlad,
admitting that he received substantial though unsolicited
presents from the claimant. He consents to repay a sum
proportional to the unexpired part of the Renter's term of con-
tract, and asks Goodlad to arrange the matter secretly in
conjunction with Muttukrishna Mudali, his former dubash.
Palk also wrote to Governor Bourchier, who replies (No. 78)
that " Rajahpundit is an infamous rascal, and is so much in
debt to the Nabob that he is now under confinement." The
affair was finally settled by Goodlad in 1771 (No. 140).
Captain Madge, on his return to the Circars after the war,
writes (No. 71) regarding the shortcomings of a cadet named
Smerdon, in whom Palk was interested. Smerdon, contrary
to his own inclination, was sent to India by his father, who
not only allowed his son to sail penniless, but failed even to
supply him with the clothing necessary for the voyage. Madge
aided him on his arrival at Madras and afterwards in the Circars,
but he proved to be temperamentally unfitted for the service,
and was permitted to resign it. His " elopement from Madras "
is subsequently recorded (No. 86). Lieut. Thomas Palk was
joined in the Circars in 1771 by his younger brother John, who
gives an account (No. 124) of his voyage and first experiences
of India. On landing at Madras he was met by his cousin Tom
Palk, " who behaved very kind and genteel " to him. Imme-
diately after Ensign John Palk's arrival Madge received orders
to march against the rebellious hill-chief of Totapilh (No. 129).
His detachment attained its object,, but on its return march 18
out of the 20 Europeans accompanying it were struck down
by the pernicious fever for which the Rampa hills are notorious,
and only 8 recovered. The two young Palks fell victims to the
malady, and their commander's constitution was broken
(No. 139). Major Madge took part in the siege of Tanjore in
1773, but died at Madras shortly afterwards (Nos. 216, 227).
Robert Palk was eventually successful in obtaining a writer-
ship for his nephew Tom Palk. The latter, who had been
commissioned Ensign, found a military life to his taste, and he
did well during the campaign. He hesitated about renouncing
(1) In his original City of Dreadful Night, descriptive of certain aspects of
Calcutta, Mr. Kipling has a chapter " Concerning Lucia," which mentions her
" stately tomb " in the South Park Cemetery. The account o£ the City of
Dreadful Night in Mr. Kipling's collected works relates to Lahore.
xvin
" the sword for the quiJl," but ultimately signed covenants in
June, 1769. Tom Palk was placed under Goodlad in the
Secretary's office, and endeavoured to supplement his monthly
salary of 8 pagodas and 23 fanams by embarking in private trade.
His uncle made him an allowance, but he soon became involved
in debt. Though Governor Bourchier describes him (No. 78)
as " a sedate, sensible youth," his early career hardly justifies
the encomium.
Disgusted at his want of success in the war with Haidar,
and conscious of the displeasure of the Directors, Bourchier
resolved (No. 78) to retire in. January, 1770. Handing over
charge to Du Pre on the 31st, he sailed in the Britannia in com-
pany with his brother James and Colonel John Call. Bourchier
received a better reception from the Court than he anticipated
(No. 119). The brothers, who had accumiilated a joint fortune
of about £60,000 (No. 78), arrived in England in time to see
their father Richard Bourchier, sometime Governor of
Bombay, just before his death. Fifteen years earlier Orme had
characterized Charles Bourchier as "a young man who had
strength enough to stand on his own judgment : would not
willingly do the wrong thing : but the superiour genius of Mr.
Palk had enthralled him so much to the dictates of his under-
standing, that the will of the pastor became infallibly that of
the disciple." d)
In supplement to the letters of 1767 to 1769 in Mrs.
Bannatyne's collection the following selected documents from
the British Museum series of Palk Papers should be read : —
Add. MSS., 34,685.
1767, Nov. — Robert Palk to Jimmy [James Bourchier],
from London.
N.D. [cir. 1768, Feb.] Robert Palk to Charles Bourchier, Nicholas
Morse, and John Call, from London.
Add. MSS., 34,686.
1768, Feb. 8th Nicholas Morse to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ May 11th Charles Bourchier to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
,, Aug. 7th John Call to Robert Palk,
from Camp, near Bangalore.
„ Aug. 8th Alexander Wynch to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ Sept. 14th Wilham Aldersey to Robert Palk,
from Cossimbazar.
„ Sept. 21st Harry Verelst to Robert Palk,
from Fort William, Calcutta.
„ „ „ George Dodwell to Robert Palk,
from Bengal.
(1) Orme MSS., vol. 28, Bobert Ovme to John Payne, 26th Oct., 1755,
XIX
17(58, Sept. 23rd Claud Russell to Robert Palk,
from Calcutta.
„ Oct. 22nd Alexander Wynch to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ Nov. 4th Chokappa Chetti to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ Nov. 27th Anthony Goodlad to Robert Palk,
from Fort William, Calcutta.
1769, Feb. 19th Charles Boiirchier to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ Feb. 24th Alexander Wynch, to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ Mar. 5th William Wynch to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
,, Mar. 10th Charles Bourchier to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
[1769] Mar. 22nd EmeHa Vansittart, sen., to Robert Palk,
from Bath.
1769, June 26th WiUiam Wynch to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
,, „ Rajah Pant to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ ,, Chokappa Chetti to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
„ „ John Call to Robert Palk,
from Madras.
„ June 28th Shamier Sultan to Robert Palk,
from Fort St. George, Madras.
[1769] Oct. 16th Henry Vansittart, sen., to Robert Palk,
from Madeira.
Josias Du Pre, who had entered the civil service in 1752, was
Secretary during Lally's siege of Fort St. George, of which he
was the official diarist. He visited England in 1764, and
returned to Madras in 1768 as Second of Council with succession
to Bourchier. His governorship lasted for three uneasy years,
during two of which he had the advantage of the co-operation
of Warren Hastings. After a distinguished service of fourteen
years in Bengal Hastings had, in 1764, accompanied Henry
Vansittart to England, and although he desired re-employment,
it was not until 1769 that he was appointed to Madras. He
arrived at Fort St. George in September, and sat as Third of
Council with the duties of Export Warehousekeeper. On
Bourchier's departure he became Second Member. He recast
the system of ' Tji vestment,' and took an active part in the
proceedings of the Board of Police. In 1771 Hastings was
nominated to succeed John Cartier as Governor of Bengal, and
he sailed for Calcutta in February, 1772.
Impressed by the magnitude of recent territorial acquisitions
in India, and by the Company's assumption of sovereignty over
them, the Ministry in England determined on intervention in
XX
Indian affairs. The Directors, justly alarmed for their powers,
resolved to anticipate reforms, and to this end appointed Henry
Vansittart, Luke Scrafton and Colonel Francis Forde as Com-
missioners ; a selection which commended itself to Hastings
(No. 88), who expected that Vansittart would ultimately be
reappointed Governor of Bengal. The Commissioners sailed
from Portsmouth in September, 1769, in the frigate Aurora,
left the Cape about the 24th December, and were never again
heard of. The ship is believed to have been wrecked off the
north coast of Madagascar. As time passed without news of
her, the letters from India from April, 1770, onwards breathe
anxiety, and when a;t last hope was given up, the loss of
Vansittart Avas keenly felt by his father-in-law Nicholas Morse
and brother-in-law Robert Palk (Nos. 103, 134). The first step
taken by the Ministry in pursuance of their object was the
despatch of Sir John Lindsay, a young Admiral of thirty-three,
as Naval Commander-in-Chief in India and Plenipotentiary at
the Court of Nawab Walajah, with power to treat with other
native rulers. Sir John arrived at Madras in July, 1770, and
presented his credentials to an astonished Council, who had
received no intimation of his powers. He demanded inspection
of the consultation books, which was refused, attached himself
to the Nawab, and assumed an authority which the Government
declined to recognize (No. 117). General Eyre Coote came out
in the same month as Commander-in-Chief in India. He claimed
the right to issue orders to the Madras army without submitting
them to Government, and maintained that his position was
superior to that of the Governor, who held the Company's
commission as Commander-in-Chief at Fort St. George. The
Council deciding against Coote, he refused to serve, and left
for Europe via Basra (No. 118). Du Pre writes to Palk (No. 108),
" The Company abuse us like pick-pockets, send over a military
officer to quarrel with and tyrannise over us and throw us into
confusion. The Government send Sir John Lindsay to threaten
and awe us, to wrest all our actions into crimes, and to support
the Nabob (perverse enough before) against all our measures ;
and then, if misfortunes happen, we must bear the whole. I
tell you, my friend, the Company's affairs never were in so
dangerous a way. We are surrounded with enemys, and the
most dangerous are neither Hyder, the Morattas, the Soubah
or the French." Hastings remarks (No. Ill) that " General
Coote is returning to England in disgust because we will not
acknowledge his supremacy. Sir J. L. stays because (as I
suppose) his Excellency [the Nawab] acknowledges his sup-
remacy. Appeals will be made by both to their respective
constituents, and all the powers of the Company and of the
Crown called upon to punish us for disobedience, contumacy
and rebellion." Goodlad considers the situation critical (No.
118) ; the Nawab thwarting the Council, " a Government spy
picking holes in their coat on every occasion, and the
XXI
Commander of the army bellowing out vengeance because he
cannot be supreme."
In January, 1770, Haidar Ali was again attacked by the
Peshwa Madhu Rao. Hastings thinks (No. 88) that if a com-
promise is effected between them, they may combine to invade
the Carnatic. The Marathas demanded British aid, and Haidar
claimed it under the treaty of 1769 (No. 91) ; but Du Pre, while
amusing both parties with expectations, resolved to maintain
neutrality (Nos. 94, 96). The Secretaries, Stone and Goodlad,
doubtless reflecting the views of the Council, contend (Nos. 117,
118) that if the British are compelled to intervene, they ought
to help Haidar, as he constitutes a barrier against Maratha
aggression in Southern India. In May, 1770, Madhu Rao
returned to Poona sick, leaving Trimbak Rao in command of
the army in Mysore. Haidar sustained a severe reverse near
Seringapatam in the following March and narrowly escaped
capture. Nawab Walajah, supported by the Plenipotentiary,
urged alliance with the Peshwa. Du Pre, however, remained
firm in his neutrality (Nos. 155, 157). When the Marathas
actually crossed the Carnatic border the Governor prepared for
resistance ; but the Nawab intervened, and by a small payment
induced them to withdraw (No. 159). Stone says (No. 163)
that Walajah and the Marathas were secretly acting in collusion,
and that the latter had promised the Baramahal and Seringa-
patam to the former if Haidar were overthrown with British
help. In June, 1772, a treaty was concluded between Haidar
and the Peshwa by which the Marathas received 60 lakhs of
rupees'!' (No. 175), and obtained a cession of territory including
Sira and Kolar. The Nawab's frontiers then became conter-
minous with the Maratha dominions along the line of the passes
into the Carnatic.
Colonel John Wood was tried by court-martial towards the
end of 1769 on various charges relating to misappropriation
of stores captured in Coimbatore, and to his conduct in the
field during the war with Haidar. The court acquitted him
of all the charges, but the Government set aside the finding as
being contrary to the evidence, and dismissed Wood from the
service. Hastings, writing to Palk (No. 88), expresses the hope
that the Directors will approve the action of Government, and
that Laurence Sulivan, who is a relation of Wood, will give
personal attention to the voluminous proceedings in the case.
Goodlad quotes reasons (No. 91) for the dismissal, and regrets
that they were not made public. Ultimately the Directors
upheld the finding of the court-martial, and Wood's acquittal
was confirmed (Nos. 140, 153).
Laurence Sulivan, an intimate friend of Robert Palk, played
for thirty years a prominent part in the affairs and management
of the East India Company. Entering the Bombay civil
service as Factor in 1741, he returned to England on account of
(1) WUks (History of Mysoor) says 35 lakha.
XX] 1
ill-health in 1752. Three years later he was elected a Director,
and between that time and his death in 1786 he repeatedly
served as either Chairman or Deputy Chairman. Whenever
the rules required his withdrawal from the Direction he knew
no rest until he had secured re-election. The qualification for a
vote was the possession of 5001. of India stock. The proprietor
of a larger amount could increase his voting power only by
splitting his holding into blocks of 500L stock, and assigning
them to friends on condition of their voting to his order. Such
votes were termed " split votes." Sulivan, being out of the
Direction in 1767, requested Palk, who had just returned to
England, to ask his friends (No. 41) for votes in SuHvan's favour.
The effort was unsuccessful, and in the following year Sulivan
combined with Henry Vansittart to purchase India stock
(No. 97). Both were chosen for the Direction in 1769 ; but
owing to a heavy fall in the value of the stock they found them-
selves financially embarrassed. Vansittart hoped to restore
his fortunes by proceeding once more to India as one of the
three Commissioners. His death by the wreck of the Aurora
revealed the extent of his losses (No. 103), but even before these
were known, Sulivan had been compelled to ask for Palk's good
offices with the creditors. In 1772 Sulivan discloses (Nos.
169, 170, 171) his ruined condition, states his liabilities to
Vansittart's estate and to Palk, and resolves to return, if possible,
to India. Expectations that he would be selected to succeed
Du Pre at Fort St. George were disappointed. Sulivan, who
had previously been M.P. for Taunton, sat for Ashburton from
1768 until 1774, when he withdrew (Nos. 242, 246) in favour
of Palk. In 1774 he suggests that Palk should join with others
in taking up a mortgage on Sir George Colebrooke's estates in
Grenada (No. 243). Palk declines (No. 244), giving reasons
which reflect on Colebrooke's previous transactions with him.
In the following year Sulivan is still canvassing for votes for
the Direction (No. 248).
Stephen Sulivan, the impecunious son of an impecunious
father, applies to Palk (No. 189) about 1772 for a loan of 500Z.,
but is too proud to give a reason for his request. The object
may have been aid for his father, for the latter writes (No. 169)
in the same year : — " We live now principally upon my son's
income, the good youth hardly allowing himself lOOZ. a year."
In 1774, however, Stephen Suhvan asks Palk (Nos. 238, 239,
240) for 200L or 300L on the ground that his father is not able
to supply him with what is necessary for his support. He fears
that he may yet be compelled to seek fortune in India. Four
years later he entered the civil service as Secretary at Madras
(No. 339), whence he was transferred by Hastings to Bengal.
To return to the correspondence of 1770 : — In the Northern
Presidency Governor Harry Verelst had given place to John
Cartier (No. 84). Kasim Ali Khan, the deposed Nawab of
Bengal, assumed a threatening attitude early in 1770, and
XXIU
Shuja-ud-daula, Nawab Vizier ol Oudh, was expected to join
him (No. 92). Revenue Councils were established at Murshid-
abad and Patna for Bengal and Bihar respectively, George
Vansittart and Robert Palk, jun., being appointed to the latter
(No. 100). From September tlie letters from India make frequent
allusion to the terrible famine raging in those provinces. Robert
Palk, jun., says (No. 101) that many hundreds of thousands had
died of starvation, while Goodlad communicates the intelligence
(No. 118) that the loss of life was estimated at upwards of two
millions, and that in Calcutta itself " the dead were still laying
in heaps about the streets." In March, 1771, Kasim Ali was
reported to be north of Delhi with a force of Patans and Rohillas,
prepared to join the Marathas, who under Mahadaji Sindia
had lately occupied the capital (No. 133). Six months later
the Emperor Shah Alam abandoned the British for the Marathas,
and received Delhi from the latter (No. 142). Under their tute-
lage he gained a ^•ictory over the Rohillas in February, 1772.
The Vizier, who was hostile to the Marathas, was on the Rohilla
frontier, and a British brigade from Patna was ready to support
him (No. 168).
A letter from Captain James Rennell, the Surveyor General
(No. 145), describes that officer's progress on the survey of Bengal.
Rennell entered the Navy in 1756 at the age of fourteen, and the
Company's service in 1763, when he was employed in trans-
porting troops by sea from Madras to Tondi for the siege of
Madura. On that occasion he surveyed Palk Strait, so named
after the Governor, and in the following year he was appointed
Surveyor General and commissioned in the Bengal Engineers.
He became Captain in 1767 and Major in 1775. His first map
of Bengal was carried home by Clive in 1767. In November,
1771, Captain Rennell announces that the field work of his
General Survey of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, including marine
work on the coasts and islands of the Bay, is almost complete.
He expects that his map, in about 50 folio sheets, will be ready
early in 1773. The Bengal Atlas was actually published in 1779.
A brief note of 1776 from Major Rennell (No. 266) relates to
domestic events and conditions.
Turning again to the Southern Presidency, we learn that early
in 1771 the Raja of Tanjore, influenced by the Marathas, of
whose race he was, attacked the Marawar of Ramnad and pene-
trated to his capital. The Marawar owed allegiance to the
Nawab, and both Walajah and Sir John Lindsay urged reprisals
on Tanjore. Goodlad says (Nos. 133, 140) that, though by the
treaty of 1762 with the Raja the Company was bound to support
the Nawab, yet the moment was unsuitable for taking action.
There was risk of a Maratha invasion of the Carnatic, and
moreover Fazil Beg Khan, the Nizam's bakhshi, was threatening
the Circars. The Nawab, the Plenipotentiary, the Raja, the
the Marathas and Fazil Beg were all sources of uneasiness to the
Madras Government. " Du Pre, though indefatigable, is almost
XXIV
harassed to death ; Hastings knows not which way to turn
himself, and the Secretaries have not a moment that they dare
call their own." Fortified, however, by the opinion of the
Directors that the Raja ought to contribute to the cost of the
late war, the Council eventually supported the Nawab in his
demands, and provided an auxiliary force under General Joseph
Smith, which was to act under Walajah's orders (No. 142). The
fort of Vallam was reduced in September, 1771, and siege was
laid to Tanjore. By the end of October a practicable breach
had been made, but on the eve of assault Walajah accepted
peace on payment by the Raja of an indemnity and arrears of
tribute (Nos. 155, 157). The Nawab's motives for granting
such moderate terms were obscure. Goodlad attributes them
(No. 159) to fear of the Marathas and jealousy of the Company.
The presence of the King's Plenipotentiary had the worst
effect on the Nawab. Walajah neglected the Company, to
whom he owed his position as ruler of the Carnatic, and relied
solely on the Crown. Proud and ambitious, he hoped to attain
independence (No. 118). Lindsay, after a year of strained
relations with Du Pre, sailed in July, 1771, and was succeeded
in September by Admiral Sir Robert Harland, who possessed
the same powers as his predecessor (No. 142). Stone writes
(No. 163) that Harland's instructions are to give effect to the
Treaty of Paris of 1763, and to receive and transmit complaints
from the Nawab. By a strained construction of Article 11 of the
treaty the Nawab is deemed an ally of the Crown, and as such
is entitled to the King's support and protection. Stone points
out that Walajah's undoubted subordination to both the Mogul
and his deputy the Nizam are thus ignored. When Du Pre
refused to join the Marathas against Haidar Harland threatened
to engage the Crown in an alliance with the Peshwa, and enquired
whether the Company would in that case assist with troops.
Being met with an uncompromising negative, he altered his
tone — the result, as was surmised, of orders from the Ministry
(No. 165). Goodlad writes (No. 167) that no confidence sub-
sists between the Nawab and the Council, and that conditions"
are hopeless as long as a Minister of the Crown is retained.
The Nawab, he says, has sent home many complaints. " Is it
possible to live on terms with a man who is known to endeavour
all in his power to thus stab in the dark ? " Harland sailed with
the squadron for Bombay in October, 1772, omitting to take
leave of the Governor, and consequently receiving no salute
(No. 188). He finally left India in July, 1774.
The Nawab's indebtedness to both the Company and private
creditors is a frequent topic of the letters from Fort St. George,
In 1767 the private debt, which appears to have amounted to
about 23 lakhs of pagodas, was consolidated (No. 28). The
majority of the Europeans in the Madras Presidency, from
members of the Government downwards, were creditors, as
well as many persons in Bengal; but the senior officials
XXV
voluntarily renounced priority of claim in favour of the Company.
Governor Bourchier remarks in 1769 (No. 78) that Walajah
then owed the Company Pags. 27 lakhs, more than half of
which was for war expenditure ; but he had engaged to clear off
25 lakhs by the middle of 1771 (No. 85). The interests of the
pr^v^ate creditors were represented in England by a Committee,
of which General Richard Smith was the leading member
(No. 91). A striking instance of usurious interest is cited by
Goodlad (No. 118), but the ordinary rate before consolidation
appears to have been 20 per cent. (No. 22), which was afterwards
reduced to 10 per cent. The Select Committee decided that
the Company's claims should have priority, and in 1771 Goodlad
states (No. 140) that the Nawab's public dues having been
discharged, the private creditors may shortly expect a dividend.
Walajah however was recklessly extravagant, and it was not
long before he was again overwhelmed with debt.
News from home is communicated by Robert Palk, who
announces in December, 1770 (No. 119) that England is pre-
paring for war with Spain, though there is hope that hostilities
may yet be averted. He characterizes the idea of conquering
Mysore as a " wild plan," and regrets that Bourchier lent himself
to it. In the following year Palk writes (No. 134) that Hastings
has been proposed as Governor of Bengal, but Rumbold is a
powerful rival. In 1772 he intimates (Nos. 153, 166) that, while
the Ministry do not aim at displacing the Company, they desire
to see affairs in India better managed, and will move Parliament
to regulate them. Informations regarding alleged frauds
have been laid by the brothers Johnstone against Clive and
others. Clive spoke for two hours in the House of Commons
in vindication of his conduct, and he was followed by Rumbold,
Carnac and Coote, the last of whom animadverted on the exces-
sive cost of the army in India. Palk considers that the Directors
base their actions on motives of self-interest, and asserts that
they are " all such -ignoramus's that they understand little or
nothing of the affairs abroad." He mentions that Laurence
Sulivan is a candidate for the Governorship of Madras in
succession to Du Pre.
Warren Hastings sailed from Madras on the 2nd February,
1772, carrying with him John Stewart (or Stuart), who had just
arrived from England as Secretary to the Bengal Government.
Hastings succeeded Cartier on the 13th April. In September
he writes (No. 174) to Laurence Sulivan from Cossimbazar,
enumerating his first reforms ; the appointments made to the
household of the minor Nawab of Bengal, and the reduction of
that prince's stipend ; the employment of Nandkumar to break
the power of Muhammad Raza Khan, who as Naib Diwan had
virtually ruled Bengal for seven years ; the commencement
of a revenue settlement ; the formation of a plan for the better
administration of justice, and the adoption of Calcutta as the
seat of the Diwani and the capital of the province. " The
XXVI
principles of all our measures have been to establish the new
system which the Directors have adopted ; to break the
influence of the former Administration ; to avail ourselves of
the present minority'!' to establish the line of the Company's
power, and habituate the people and the Nabob to their sove-
reignty, and to make it acceptable to the former by an attention
to their ease and by a mild and equal plan of Government.
Hastings complains, however, that his constitutional powers
as President are too circumscribed He hopes to avoid being
drawn into war. The Nawab Vizier of Oudh has sought
British aid against the Marathas, but it will be afforded for his
defence only, not for aggression. The Marathas have with-
drawn from Rohilkhand, and are operating against the Jats.
The Emperor Shah Alam is at Delhi " in union, that is, in
subjection to the Marrattas."
Two months later Hastings writes to Palk (No. 185), expressing
regret that the Directors should pay any attention to the scur-
rilous writings of William Bolts and Alexander Dow regarding
Bengal administration, and that Parliament should contemplate
making laws for India, seeing that the House is ignorant of the
customs of the country. He mentions the arrest of Muhammad
Raza Khan, whose influence he hopes to eradicate. Muhammad
Raza had been seized in August and taken to Calcutta. He and
Shatab Rai, Naib Diwan of Bihar, were suspected of malver-
sation of the revenue. Both were in due course honourably
acquitted, but the Company having assumed the Diwani, their
offices were abolished.
Among the Palk papers is also a detailed memorandum
(No. 190) of the reforms introduced by Hastings during 1772.
Colonel Gilbert Ironside, who as a subaltern had commanded
the escort on the occasion of Hastings's mission to Patna in
1762, is another of Palk's Bengal correspondents. Descended
from two Bishops of Bristol of the same name, and son of a banker.
Ironside was a soldier of education and ability who obtained
rapid promotion. Palk had asked him (No. 135) to procure a
copy of the Code of Muhammadan Law, perhaps for the use of
the home authorities, who proposed to frame a code for India.
From the library of NaAvab Muhammad Raza Khan Ironside
secured (No. 168) the Digests of the Arabian Canon and Civil
Laws, which he caused to be transcribed and sent to Palk (No.
186). He expresses appreciation of Hastings's reforms, and
says that the Governor is surmounting all difficulties. Mrs.
Ironside joined her husband from England in 1773, and the
Colonel notes (No. 226) the restoration of Robert Palk, jun.,
to his seat on the Board of Revenue at Patna, " which is looked
upon to be a certain and considerable fortune in the space of a
few years." The younger Robert is not himself so sanguine.
He alludes (No. 227) to Hastings's large economies, and says
hat the opium trade hitherto in the hands of the civil servants
(i) The minority of the Nawab oH Bengal.
xxvu
at Patna having been claimed for the Corhpany, nothing now
remains to the service but salt and European goods. He hopes
nevertheless to be able to return to England by 1780.
Henry Vansittart, jun., eldest son of Governor Vansittart,
sailed from England in 1771 as a Writer on the Bengal establish-
ment. He gives an account of his voyage (Nos. 138, 141, 147,
152) to his uncle Robert Palk. Within a month of his arrival
at Calcutta he left for Madras to visit his grandfather Nicholas
Morse (No. 162), the voyage occupying 25 days. Morse's death
on the 28th May, 1772, the result of an accident, cut short
Vansittart's stay, Chokappa Chetti says (No. 179) that Morse
was " a father and friend to all the people in Madras." Return-
ing to Bengal, young Vansittart went to Patna to visit his uncle
George (No. 172), and it was not until March, 1773, that he
began work as a Writer (No. 202). During the interval, however,
he became so proficient in Persian that he earned Hastings's
commendation (No. 210) for translating at sight a History of the
Sanyasis. These wandering bands of robbers, posing as religious
mendicants, roved northern India inhoxdes of several thousands,
committing grievous depredations. In March, 1773, no less
than five battalions of sepoys were operating against them.
In the course of 1773 Emelia, daughter of Governor Vansittart,
arrived from England to stay with her uncle George, who had
now become a member of the Bengal Council. Robert Palk,
jun., writes (No. 220) that, owing to her early introduction into
society in England, she regards us in Calcutta as " contemptible
beings;" nevertheless, " she is upon the whole a very worthy
good young woman." In January, 1774, he informs his uncle
(No. 227) that Mr. Petre has been tried for the murder of Mr.
Rochford and acquitted. No mention of the trial has been
traced in the records, but the fatality was probably the outcome
of a duel between two yoimg writers, John Petre and George
Rochford. Petre offered himself to Emelia Vansittart, who,
fortified by her uncle George's disapproval, refused him. A
httle later she became the wife of Edward Parry* ') of the Bengal
civil service, and the union proved a happy one (No. 252).
Tom Palk, who had visited Trichiriopoly with General Joseph
Smith in 1771, sends an account (No. 158) of the disastrous
powder explosion which occurred at that station on the 14th
February, 1772. He complains that, excepting Mr. Morse,
none of his uncle's friends has shown him any attention. Later
in the year he sailed for Calcutta to visit his half-brother Robert
(No. 184). In January, 1773, he writes (No. 191) that he is
much enjoying himself " as this happens to be the season for
all sorts of diversions, of which we have little or none on the
Coast." Always inclined to rely on interest rather than on his
own exertions, he is soon grumbling that his brother, who
spends 4,000Z. to 5,000Z. a year, does not do more to help him.
(1) Brii. Mus., Addl. MSS., 34,680, George Vunsittavt to Bobert Piilk, 27th
Marcli, 1774,
XXVlll
While still at Calcutta Tom Palk was appointed, to Masulipatam
(No. 207), and Major Madge offered to unite with Robert Palk,
jun., in advancing a substantial sum to enable the young man
to embark on private trade. In January, 1774, the younger
Robert writes to his uncle (No. 227), " My brother is at Masuli-
patam, and much pains I have taken to correct his errors and
advise him to the best of my judgement ; but whether it will be
of service to him or not I can't determine. I have said and
done all in my power, and added 4,000 Rs. within these few
days to 12,000 which he has already had and, I fear, spent.
I have little expectation of seeing my money again. It will,
however, be some satisfaction to me if it saves him from ruin . . .
He is yet young enough to reform." Before this letter reached
its destination Governor Palk had administered a severe casti-
gation (No. 224) to the idle and extravagant young man. " I
cannot observe," he says, " in your letters or your conduct
one generous sentiment which can give me a prospect of your
future success and well doing." He alludes to his honest and
worthy though not opulent ancestors, and states that the allow-
ance he made to his nephew was ample had the latter chosen to
live in the Fort. It may hence be concluded that the young
Writer had indulged himself with a residence in the White Town
in preference to the stuffy quarters in the Fort Square, for he
could scarcely aspire to a country house in the suburbs of
Madras. This letter produced a suspension of communication
between uncle and nephew which appears to have lasted several
years. Eventually a reconciliation was effected. Marriage
wrought reform, and Tom Palk saved money, brought up a
family and retired on a competence.
At the instance of Nawab Walajah an expedition commanded
by General Joseph Smith was organized in 1772 against the two
Marawars. At Ramnad great treasure was seized (Nos. 175,
176). Kalaiyarkoil, a scene of lamentable slaughter through
miscarriage of orders, was captured by Colonel Abraham
Bonjour. The troops were subsequently employed in reducing
the poligars of Madura and Tinnevelly. In August General
Smith resigned the command of the army to Colonel Sir Robert
Fletcher (No. 179). Fletcher had originally been entertained
locally in 1757 as a monthly Writer at Madras, but was trans-
ferred to the army, in which his promotion was rapid. He
served as Brigade Major in the Manila expedition of 1762, and
was subsequently moved to Bengal. In 1766, when Lieut.
Colonel commanding a brigade, he joined the mutinous com-
bination of officers which was suppressed by Clive. Tried and
cashiered, he returned to England and entered Parliament.
His influence enabled him to procure reinstatement, and he
arrived at Madras in 1772 with the rank of Colonel. Tom Palk
writes (No. 191), " My beloved friend, General Smith " goes
home, and " the command of the troops has devolved on Sir
Robert Fletcher, who is vmiversally despised, the court martial
XXIX
business having laid a stain on his principles that will never be
forgot or washed out. Consequently I have not the least
intimacy with him." Fletcher proved a thorn in Du Pre's
flesh. His obstructiveness in Council became so exasperating
that he was ordered to Trichinopoly (No. 196). He claimed to
resume his seat in Parliament, and his return to England was
sanctioned, provided he first joined his new station. Passing
through Cuddalore on his way south, he induced the Chief,
James Daniell, to represent his cause (No. 193) to Robert Palk,
and secure the latter's interest with the Directors . On Fletcher's
relief from command Joseph Smith consented to postpone his
own departure and resume duty in place of " the Chevalier "
(No. 198).
In October, 1772, Du Pre intimated to Palk (No. 182) his
intention of resigning in the following January, as his " con-
stitution is quite worn out." The rest of his stay was embittered
by disputes in Council, and at the final meeting before he sailed
George Mackay was suspended for maliciously laying an infor-
mation against Edward Stracey (No. 196). Du Pre embarked
on the 1st February, 1773, in the Nassau, leaving Alexander
Wjmch in the Chair. Three months earlier J. M. Stone, who
had been promoted to Council, had written to Palk (No. 181)
suggesting that Wynch's Government would be strengthened
if W. M. Goodlad also were admitted. Before Stone's letter
reached its destination, Goodlad was dead. Attacked by
hepatic disease, he was operated on by Dr. Gilbert Pasley and
advised to go to Europe. A relapse occurred, however, and
Goodlad expired of septix;semia on the 24th January, universally
lamented. Tom Palk opines (No. 201) that Goodlad's fortune
wiir prove to be limited, as " he was a great lover of claret and
every thing that was good." William Petrie, who succeeded
Stone as Secretary in the Military and Political Department,
informs Palk (No. 196) that Goodlad's affairs are involved owing
to his association in private trade with James Johnson, account-
ant to the Nawab. Until his death Goodlad was one of Palk's
most frequent correspondents. His two brothers, Anthony and
Richard, the latter of whom had recently arrived in India, were
Bengal civil servants, and the elder henceforth assumed the
duty of maintaining communication with their friend and patron
(No. 203). He reports in due course (No. 215) that Petrie has
done well in the settlement of Martin's affairs, and that there
will probably be enough money to discharge the liabilities.
This expectation proved too sanguine. Thirteen years later
it was estimated (No. 469) that while the bond creditors would
be paid in full, the book creditors would receive only 60 per cent.
of their dues.
. The Resident in Ganjam, Edward Cotsford, furnishes a sketch
(No. 183) of affairs in his district from the time of Palk's depar-
ture down to 1772. Cotsford entered the Madras Engineers in
1758, and served in the Manila expedition and at the two sieges
XXX
of Madura. In 1766 he was selected by Palk to be Resident in
the newly ^acquired territory of Ganjam, and three years later
he relinquished the military for the civil service. In March,
1767, during Captain Cotsford's temporary absence, Narayan
Deo, Zemindar of Kimedi, seized part of the Chicacole Cirear.
Colonel Joseph Peach, commanding the Bengal force sent to
threaten Hyderabad during the first Mysore war, was employed
against this turbulent chief, who was defeated and driven out
of the country. Cotsford returned to Ganjam early in 1768,
accompanied by a detachment of troops. He states that the
Zemindars have now (1772) been brought to some degree of
order at the cost of 450 casualties to his own force of 16 com-
panies. A fort is in course of construction, and the net revenue
of the district is Ij lakhs of rupees. Most of the Zemindars
are under the authority of a powerful chief named Sitaram Raz ;
but this system, though necessary at one time, is now undesirable,
as each zemindar ought to be directly responsible to the Resident.
A year later Cotsford anticipates (No. 217) that Ganjam will
become the granary of Madras.
Alexander Wynch, who became provisional Governor on
Du Pre's departure, had had long experience of the Company's
service. Entertained locally in 1734, he was brought on the
civil list in 1740. He was a member of Pigot's Council from
1755, and was officiating as Deputy Governor of Fort St. David
when that place capitulated to Lally in 1758. He subsequently
resigned the service and sailed for England. In 1768 he was
re-employed, and served as Chief at Masulipatam. The prin-
cipal event of his governorship, which lasted from February,
1773, until the arrival of Lord Pigot in December, 1775, was
the conquest of the province of Tanjore, an operation which had
far-reaching consequences. Walajah's pretext for attack was
the non-payment of tribute by the Raja. The Government,
supported by Harland, sent a contingent under General Joseph
Smith to assist the Nawab. British and Carnatic troops laid
siege to the fort and city of Tanjore in August, 1773, and the
place was taken on the 17th September. It was made over to
the Nawab, who imprisoned the Raja and occupied the province.
The fort of Vallam, a few miles from the capital, was garrisoned
by the Company's troops. Before his deposition the Raja
had granted the sea port of Nagore to the Dutch, and Walajah
claimed British help in recovering it. Edward Cotsford states
(No. 217) that the Dutcli evacuated the territory under protest,
but collected troops from Ceylon and assumed a threatening
attitude. He comments on the reprehejisible system adopted
at Tanjore by the Nawab of bargaining with a committee of
British officers for money to be paid them in lieu of plunder,
and considers that the plan strikes at the root of discipline'.
There are rumours, he says, that the officers mav refuse to fight
the Dutch on the ground that such service is not covered by
their agreement with the Nawab,
XXXI
Towards the end of 1773 Hastings mentions (No. 223) his
negotiations with the Nawab Vizier, which terminated in the
Treaty of Benares. By this instrument the districts of Kora and
Allahabad, which Clive had assigned in 1765 to the titular
Emperor, were, in consequence of Shah Alam's rupture with
the British and attachment to the Marathas, taken back and
ceded to the Vizier. Shuja-ud-daula agreed to pay 50 lakhs
of rupees into Hastings's exhausted treasury, while the Company
engaged to furnish him with military aid against the Rohillas.
Anthony Goodlad alludes (No. 215) to the treaty, and refers
Palk for details to George Vansittart, who was with Hastings
at the time of its execution. Goodlad says that the differences
, in England between the Ministry and the Directors arouse
anxiety in India, and considers that Hastings deserves more
ample support in his reforms. Robert Palk, jun., writes in
January, 1774 (No. 227) that the Vizier has already paid 20
lakhs of the stipulated sum. He enumerates Hastings's new
revenue regulations, whereby Provincial Councils replace Col-
lectors, and Revenue Courts are established. Members of the
Councils are forbidden to engage in private trade, but are
granted a substantial allowance in lieu. Military officers are
prohibited from dealing with landholders or revenue officials.
He reports that General Sir Robert Barker, who had exercised
great influence over the Nawab Vizier, has left India, and that
the army command has devolved on General Chapman, an
elderly officer whose chief aim is to recoup his gambling losses.
It is expected that Chapman will be bought out of the service
by his juniors, and that General Alexander Champion will
succeed him.
In February the same correspondent reports (Nos. 233, 234)
that the Jats have yielded Agra to the combined forces of the
Emperor, under Najaf Khan, and the Nawab Vizier. Hastings's
stipulation that the British troops within the confines of Oudh
shall be paid by Shuja-ud-daula is said to have been unfavourably
criticized : it is called " hiring the troops to the country powers."
Economies are being effected in all directions. A post is about
to be established for the whole country, a charge of two annas
per hundred miles being fixed for each letter of minimum
weight. This plan will save the Company two lakhs of rupees
annually, the cost of the existing dales. Some two years later
the advantages of the Suez route for mails to and from England
become apparent. John d 'Fries reports from Madras in 1776
(No. 299) that private letters for Hastings of the 20th May
from London and 3rd June from Marseilles were delivered in
Calcutta on the 15th August. He advocates the appointment
of a Company's agent" at Cairo to forward communications to
Suez, where a small vessel from Bombay or Bengal should be
always kept in readiness for the passage to India. In his view
a quarterly service might thus be maintained at small cost.
Among Robert Palk's native correspondents at Fort St.
C]
xxxu
George are Chokappa Chetti and Muttukrishna Mudali. The
former, a Company's Merchant of long standing, was thrown out
of employ by the change in the system of Investment which
Hastings introduced when Export Warehousekeeper. Under
his plan gomastas in the weaving villages replaced the Company's
Merchants. Chokappa continued, however, to hold the contract
for the exclusive supply of arrack and toddy (Nos. 194, 204).
Muttukrishna, who had held the office of Company's Interpreter
from 1749, attended Palk and Vansittart on their mission
to Sadras in 1754, and detected the forgery which Dupleix
attempted to impose on the Commissioners. Chokappa
frequently gives news of French proceedings. In 1773 and
1774 he reports (Nos. 219, 230) activity on the fortifications,
and states that Jean Law as Governor and Commander-in-
Chief, aided by a Supervisor sent from France, rules Pondi-
cherry for the King independently of a Council.
On the 18th November, 1772, died the Peshwa Madhu Rao.
He was succeeded by his brother Narayan Rao, whose uncle
Raghunath Rao, commonly called Raghoba, became commander
of the army (No. 194). The new Peshwa was murdered in the
following August at the instigation of Raghoba, who aimed at
the government. The Ministers, however, supported an infant
said to be a posthumous son of Narayan. The dissensions
which ensued gave Haidar an opportunity of recovering lost
territory. In November, 1773, he reduced Malabar, while Tipu
secured the northern districts around Sira. Chokappa writes
in February, 1774 (No. 230) that Raghoba, after threatening
Hyderabad with a large force, had settled with the Nizam, and
is now engaged in making terms with Haidar at Sira. It is
expected that the Marathas will invade the Carnatic in order to
compel the restoration of Tanjore to the Raja, reclaim the
Marawa country and Arni for themselves, and obtain from the
Nawab arrears of chaut. Muttukrishna Mudali writes to the
same effect (No. 232), and adds that Walajah is already nego-
tiating with Raghoba, while alarm prevails in the Carnatic.
Fears subsided as soon as it became known that the prospect
of civil war had compelled the withdrawal of Raghoba's troops
(No. 235). The Raja of Tanjore, still a prisoner, then lost all
hope of liberation.
In 1773 the Regulating Act was passed by the Home Govern-
ment. Under this Act Hastings became Governor General in
Council with certain controlling powers over Madras and
Rombay. His Council was reduced to four members, three of
whom, General Sir John Clavering, Colonel the Hon. George
Monson, and Phihp Francis, were sent out from England,
while the fourth, Richard Barwell, was' a member of the old
Council. Robert Palk, writing to Walajah about March, 1774,
(No. 237), informs him that the three new members, who are
on the point of saiKng, will visit the Nawab at Madras on their
way. Palk conveys a message from General Lawrence, whose
XXXlll
health is failing, and adds, " I still endeavour to keep up his
spirits and make his hfe comfortable as formerly, and we often
recount the many happy days we have passed with your High-
ness in the field, in garrison and at the Mount." The Regulating
Act also constituted a Supreme Court of Judicature to administer
English law at Fort William, with Sir Elijah Impey as Chief
Justice. Clavering, Monson and Francis were escorted up the
Hugh by Sir Edward Hughes, commanding the East India
squadron (No. 284), and they landed at Calcutta on the 19th
October, 1774. They at once adopted an attitude of hostility to
Hastings, who could rely for support on Barwell only. As the
Act gave the Governor General no power to outvote his Council,
Hastings was constantly thwarted, and the Government
measures adopted down to the time of Monson's death in
1777 may generally be attributed to the triune majority. They
denounced the Treaties of Allahabad and Benares, and dis-
approved of the Rohilla war, which, undertaken to support the
Vizier against the Marathas, terminated in 1774. In January,
1775, Shuja-ud-daula died and was succeeded by his son Asaf-
ud-daula, who was required to cede to the Company his
sovereign rights over the territory of Benares.
Public knowledge of the dissensions in the Council induced the
production of charges against Hastings. Maharaja Nandkumar
accused him of fraud, and Joseph and Francis Fowke of
corruption. Hastings prosecuted his accusers for conspiracy, but
while proceedings were pending Nandkumar was arrested on a
charge of forgery at the instance of a private person, and was
tried and executed. A side-light is thrown on the situation
in Council by a letter from Colonel Ironside of 1776 (No. 268).
Charges, which the accused characterizes as " frivolous and
insignificant," had been made against the Colonel and brought
to the notice of the Board. Hastings and Clavering, as re-
presenting their respective parties, both expressed themselves
ready to acquiesce in Ironside's justification, but neither would
make the first advance through fear of being charged with
partiality. Ironside having previously acted as Hastings's
Secretary, while Mrs. Ironside's brother, Roger Roberts,' i' was
Clavering's Persian Translator. Eventually the matter was
referred to the Directors. John d'Fries writes (No. 252, 256)
that " Bengal is over run with informers' accusations . . .
Nothing is done but from the spirit of party." D'Fries, an
assistant in Nicholas Morse's house of agency, carried on the
business after his chief's death. At a later date he was joined
by Thomas Pelling, a free-merchant of long standing, and the
firm became known as Pelling & de Fries. Both partners
frequently corresponded with Robert Palk, whom they re-
presented in Madras. Mrs. Morse, who had gone to England to
join her daughter Mrs. Vansittart, could not readily adapt
herself to new conditions of life after her long residence in
Madras (No. 265). Married in 1730, she had endured De la
(1) errand mentions Captain Koberts as aide-de-camp to Clavering.
XXXIV
Bourdonnais' bombardment of Fort St. George in 1746,
courageously refusing a permit to leave which was offered to her
as the wife of the Governor. Prior to Lally's siege of Madras
in 1758 Mrs. Morse and Mrs. Vansittart were sent by sea to
Sadras for safety. That Dutch settlement had just then been
seized by the French, and the ladies landed to find themselves
prisoners.
In connection with the period 1771 to 1774 the followmg
selection from the Palk papers in the British Museum should
be consulted : —
Addl. MSS., 34,686.
1771, April 22nd John Call to Robert Palk,
from Whiteford, Cornwall.
1772, Sept. 7th Warren Hastings to Robert Palk,
from Cossimbazar.
1773, Nov. 15th Warren Hastings to Robert Palk,
from Fort William, Calcutta.
1774, Jan. 17th George Vansittart to Robert Palk,
from Calcutta.
1774, Mar. 21st Warren Hastings to Robert Palk,
from Fort WiUiam, Calcutta.
1774, Mar. 27th George Vansittart to Robert Palk,
from Calcutta.
The dissensions in the Supreme Council were imitated at Fort
St. George. Nawab Walajah designed to make his favourite son
Amir-ul-Umara ruler of Tanjore (No. 250). Wynch and the
majority of Council opposed the proposition, which was sup-
ported by General Smith, J. M. Stone and Samuel Johnson,
and the matter was referred to Bengal. Chokappa notifies the
return to Madras in 1775 of Sir Robert Fletcher, and the steady
purchase by the Nawab of substantial houses in the Fort. He
-mentions tJhe publication of kn order forbidding acceptance by
the Company's civil and military servants of gifts from natives
under penalty of fine and deportation, and remarks that " if this
is the case, the Madrass gentlemen in the Company's service
will find great difficulty in getting a fortune after they disburse
their own private expences." He also reports a storm at Surat
which wrecked nine large ships and forty small vessels, and
alludes to fighting by land and sea between the Company's
forces and the Marathas.
These hostilities were due to the action of the Bombay
Government in espousing the cause of Raghoba against the
Ministerial party at Poona. The price of aid was to be the
cession of Bassein and Salsette, and an agreement known as
the Treaty of Surat was concluded with Raghoba to that effect
in 1775. The island of Salsette was occupied by a force under
Colonel Robert Gordon at the end of 1774, and three months
later Colonel Keating was sent with troops to support Raghoba
in his march from Baroda to Poona. The Supreme Council,
which had not been consulted, ordered the recall of Keating, sent
XXXV
Colonel John Upton to Poona to negotiate with the confederacy
of chiefs, and obtained a suspension of arms. Colonel Gordon,
writing to Palk in 1775, describes (No. 255) the position of affairs.
Comments on the action of the Bombay Government are made
by d'Fries (Nos. 252, 256). He remarks that Salsette is " the
grainery of Bombay," and considers the occasion favourable
for dividing and therefore weakening the Maratha power.
Meanwhile civil war continued. Muttukrishna Mudali writes
(No. 262) that the internecine strife is advantageous to the
Nizam, who has recovered lost territory, as well as to minor
chiefs, who have escaped payment of chaut. Basalat Jang,
the Nizam's brother, who had been required by the Supreme
Government to disband a substantial body of French troops in
his service (No. 256), sent his army, including the French
detachment, to besiege Bellary, where a Hindu tributary was
aiming at independence. This poligar appealed for help to
Haidar, who swooped down on Bellary, routed Basalat Jang,
continued the siege on his own account and compelled the
surrender of the unfortunate poligar (No. 263). Haidar then
attacked Gooty (No. 278), and forced its chief, the celebrated
Morari Rao, who made a gallant defence, to capitulate. Morari
Rao was imprisoned, and died in confinement.
From 1775 Robert Palk has a new correspondent, though an
old friend, in Commander George Baker, late of the Company's
marine service. Baker, who was born in 1721 at Tor Mohun
(now called Torre, near Torquay), first came to India in 1743.
Like Palk, he was with Boscawen at Pondicherry, and he after-
wards did good service during Lally's siege of Fort St. George.
He was rewarded by Pigot in 1762 with the post of Master
Attendant or controller of shipping at Madras. Nine years
later, when in England, Baker contracted with the Company
to supply water to the Fort and shipping from a source north of
Black Town, and he duly carried out the project. Reynold
Adams, who was Master Attendant when Baker arrived in 1772,
feared that the water scheme would interfere with his own
perquisites (No. 177). To recoup himself he asked for Palk's
aid in procuring a contract for the exclusive supply of betel,
tobacco and bhang (No. 229). He was the tenant of Palk's
house in the White Town, and from time to time propitiated
his landlord with the gift of a pipe of madeira. In 1775 he
sent (No. 261) " a hogshead of old Goa arrack, said to be the
best ever brought to Madras ... It was got of the dispersed
Fathers of the Inquisition." Tom Palk coveted the house,
and vainly tried to induce his uncle to evict Adams (No. 191).
George Baker reports progress (No. 260) on the Madras forti-
fications. It is remarkable that there are but few allusions in
the Palk letters to the final reform and completion of Fort St.
George. This extensive and costly work was carried out by
the Chief Engineer, Colonel Patrick Ross, between 1770 and
1788. After mentioning that dissensions in Council continue,
XXXVl
and that Governor Wynch fails to inspire respect, Baker
announces the arrival of Palk's nephew Richard Welland, a
naval cadet of the Salisbury, flagship of Sir Edward Hughes.
The Salisbury has been lately at Masulipatam to fetch some
Company's merchandize, and since her return Welland has not
been ashore, " for the Commadore pays close attention to the
manner in which all his young gentlemen spend their time."
Welland himself, a son of Governor Palk's sister Grace, writes
to his uncle (No. 259) of his visit to Masuhpatam, where Tom
Palk " behaved very kind to me and gave me some books."
He says that both Baker and Adams often invite him ashore,
and adds, " I think hats is very dear in India." Sir Edward
Hughes, who had succeeded Harland in command of the squad-
ron, sailed for the Malabar coast in October, 1775, and in the
following January writes (No. 269) that he has come to Bombay
to refit, and " assist if I can in the treaty making at Poonah."
He tells Palk that Welland " grows a very smart young man."
Colonel Upton's negotiations with the Ministerial party
terminated in the Treaty of Purandhar, by which Raghoba was
thrown over, Salsette and Broach were ceded to the Company,
while other British conquests reverted to the Marathas. In
March, 1776, Sir Edward HugJies sums up the position thus
(No. 284) : " Ragobah has been able to get little security and
no share in the government : in short the Presidency of Bombay
made a treaty with him to support his attempt, which that of
Fort William disapproved and sent a deputy to make peace,
which was concluded and signed at Poonah the 1st of this
instant." Edmund Veale Lane, a Bombay civil servant of
1767 whom Palk had befriended, was now at Tannah in Salsette
after serving as Judge Advocate with Colonel Gordon. He
writes (No. 290) of " the dishonorable and wretched treaty
concluded by the Supreme Council's Plenipo with the Ministerial
party of the Marrattas, by which we have violated the national
honor, and made our faith justly doubted by every prince in
India." Lane foresees further trouble, as Haidar is aggressive
and the Maratha chiefs are disunited. A. claimant for the
Peshwaship, who pretends to be Siidaba, cousin of Raghoba,
is in the field with a considerable force, and in Lane's opinion
he may succeed, whether an impostor or not, in overthrowing
the Ministers. The pretender gained in fact important successes
in the Konkan, and " very near wrested the government "
from the Ministerial party (No. 313). Lane considers that,
but for these successes, the cessions required by the treaty
would never have been made. The real Sudaba or Sudasheo
Rao was a nephew of the Peshwa Baji Rao. He was missing,
believed killed, after the battle of Panipat in 1761, when the
Marathas were defeated by Ahmad Shah Abdali. Some years
later a person representing himself to be Sudaba was imprisoned
as an impostor. Escaping in April, 1776, this man secured a
large following of believers, and even received some countenance
XXXVll
from the Bombay Government. Successful at first, he was
eventually defeated and dehvered to the Ministers, by whom
he was executed.
Lieut. J. Snelling, who had been started in life by Robert
Palk, writes from Vizagapatam (No. 267) that he is laid up with
a severe attack of malarial fever after an expedition in the
adjacent hills. He has lately been transferred to a battalion
commanded by Captain Mathews, and he represents that officer
as " the most warlike genius in India, and the most enter-
prizing man that ever drew sword in this part of the country . . .
What a pleasure and satisfaction it is for a young fellow like
myself to be under a man so renowned for every particular of
the military art ! " Richard Mathews, when in command of a
native battaUon in the first Mysore war, had captured the hill
fort of Mulbagal by a bold and clever stratagem. His operations
during the second Mysore war, when he commanded the troops
in Malabar will be mentioned later. Snelling has been advised
to go south for the sake of his health, but he fears the greater
expense " from the number of pleasures to be met with there,
such as plays, horse racing, cock-fighting ; in short almost all
those expensive amusements you have in England." In the
Circars he can live on his pay " very genteelly." Snelling's health
was seriously undermined, and he died at Madras in 1778
(No. 327).
The Directors appointed (No. 274) a Committee of Circuit,
consisting of five members, to tour the Circars and the Company's
Jagvr, and report on the administration of those districts. At this
juncture John Whitehill resigned the chief ship of Masulipatam,
and George Baker observes (No. 277) that " the busy world say
he chose not to stay till the new Committee came their rounds."
Writing on the 23rd February, 1776, Baker mentions (No. 281)
that Whitehill and John Sulivan will sail from Pondicherry for
Europe in the Ajax, and he adds, " A Mrs. Draper of Bombay
(who is a niece of Mr. Whitehill's) accompanyes them : they all
set out for Pondicherry to-morrow." This lady was Sterne's
" Eliza." Her father. May Sclater, went to India in 1736,
married Miss Whitehill and settled at Anjengo, where Eliza was
born in 1744. She married Daniel Draper of the Bombay civil
service, and in 1765, during a visit to England, met Laurence
Sterne. Correspondence ensued, which was afterwards pub-
lished. She was his " Bramine " ; he her " mild, generous and
good Yorick." Mrs. Draper sailed for India in 1767 to rejoin
her husband. About six years later she eloped from Bombay
in a ship commanded by Sir John Clarke,*^* and went to her
uncle Thomas Whitehill, a Bombay civil servant. She sub-
sequently joined his brother John Whitehill at Masulipatam,
and accompanied him in 1776 to England, where she died two
years afterwards at the age of thirty-four. Baker further
announces that the Hillsborough, with George Vansittart and
(1) An allusion to Sir John Clarke is made in No. 260.
XXXVlll
his wife on board, left Madras for England on the 16th February,
and was not out of sight until the 20th. The ship pursued a
leisurely course to St. Helena, where the Vansittarts became the
guests of Daniel Corneille, the Lieutenant-Governor. Corneille
writes to Palk (No. 286) regarding them, and adds, " The good
example you have set me of four little ones I am endeavouring
. to follow. My present family consist of two boys and one girl,
besides one upon the stocks that will make his or her appearance
in three months ; after which, having followed your example,
I aspire to no further wish of greater perfection."
The difficulty of making private remittances to England is
complained of in many letters. The rates for Company's bills
being generally unfavourable, remittances were often made by
sending home diamonds (Nos. 16, 20, 48, 68, 80, etc.). George
Vansittart and Robert Palk, jun., purchased a ship, loaded her
with opium, and sent her to trade in the Eastern Archipelago
and China with the view of remitting the proceeds from Batavia
and Canton (No. 213) ; but the venture proved unsuccessful.
When diamonds were not procurable recourse was had to specie.
D'Fries says in 1775 (No. 256), " The exportation of the specie
continues with us to a greater degree than ever. It is reckoned
that in the course of this present year six lacks of pagodas have
been exported to China and Europe — a melancholy and very
alarming circumstance, for it must drain the country, and that
very soon if continued." A little later Chokappa writes (No.
270), " Several gentlemen in the place, for want of a way of
remitting their fortune to England by bills, sends it in gold and
Star pagodas on every ship that goes from hence, which
impoverish[es] the place very much."
The American war is noticed by d'Fries early in 1776 (No.
276). " The unlucky turn that the American business has
taken has filled us with much serious reflection. We anxioiisly
wait to hear from England. God send that matters may have
been made up." Allusion to the war is also made by Sir E.
Hughes (No. 303).
The long expected arrival of Lord Pigot, which took place on
the 9th December, 1775, opened a strange chapter in the history
of Madras. The Governor elect was accompanied by Claud
Russell and Alexander Dalrymple, two members of his Council
of ten. Pigot was no stranger to the Southern Presidency, the
government of which he had administered from 1755 to 1763.
A grateful population was not oblivious of his successful defence
of Fort St. George against the French, nor of the subsequent
British capture of Pondicherry. George Baker describes
(No. 263) the enthusiastic reception of the new Governor and
the ceremonial observed on his assumption of office. Pigot was
charged by the Directors with orders to effect the restoration
of the Tanjore province to the Raja (No. 274). Sir Edward
Hughes wrote from Bombay (No. 284), " I am told Lord Pigot
brings regulations respecting Tanjour, but am afraid not very
XXXIX
pleasing to the pool- Nabob, who certainly merits every attention
from the English, being in my opinion their most sincere fri«nd
in this country." Pigot was considerate to the Nawab, and after
nearly two months spent in argument Walajah consented to
release the Raja and receive a British garrison in Tanjore city.
The province he could not be prevailed on to rehnquish, as he
said that the two expeditions for its conquest had cost him
three crores of rupees (No. 276). Colonel Humphrey Harper
marched from Trichinopoly and took possession of the city fort.
Meanwhile the Nawab made representations to the Directors
through Colonel Lauchlan Macleane, his agent in England
(Nos. 245, 275). Macleane had retired from tlie Bengal Army
as Major in 1766, but was re-appointed through the influence
of Sir George Colebrooke (No. 169), who was Chairman of
Directors in 1772. He returned to India as Commissary General,
Bengal, with the rank of Lieut.-Colonel. In 1774 Hastings
selected him to serve as his representative in England, and
Macleane accepted a commission to act for Walajah at the
same time.
While Pigot was arguing with Walajah, John Macpherson,
a former representative of the Nawab, intervened. Macpherson
had come to India in 1767, at the age of 22, as the purser of a
Company's ship. He ingratiated himself with the Nawab, and
was by him appointed his agent in England. Macpherson
approached the King's Ministers, and the nomination of Sir
John Lindsay as Plenipotentiary is believed to have been partly
due to his advocacy. For himself he secured a Writership at
Madras from the Directors. Early in 1776 he was paying
surreptitious midnight visits to the Nawab (No. 270) to claim
recognition of his former services. Walajah, disillusioned by
the orders respecting Tanjore, handed Macpherson's memorial
to Lord Pigot. The young civil servant was summoned before
the Council, and was dismissed the service for conduct pre-
judicial to the Company in the past (No. 277). Macpherson
returned to England in 1777 and entered Parliament. In
1781 he was reinstated by the Directors, and sent to Bengal
as a member of the Supreme Council. On Hastings's resigna-
tion in 1785 Macpherson became provisional Governor General,
and he was created a baronet in the following year.
Further pressure by Lord Pigot failed to persuade the Nawab
to reinstate the Raja, and produced only friction. Duly
authorized by the Council, Pigot went down to Tanjore with a
retinue, and on the 11th April restored the province to its former
ruler (No. 288). Chokappa, who accompanied the party,
describes (No. 289) the treatment of the Raja during his confine-
ment, and gives a graphic account of the ceremony of reinstate-
ment. Chokappa then went on to Trichinopoly, and learned
that the Marawars of Ramnad and Sivaganga were detained
prisoners there by the Nawab. While at Tanjore Lord Pigot'
required the Nawab's manager to produce accounts of the
xl
revenues of the province. The manager fled, and Pigot caused
him to be pursued into Carnatic territory and arrested. This
action gave great umbrage to the Nawab.
As security for loans from private persons Walajah had
granted tanhas or assignments of the revenues of Tanjore to
the extent of about 16 lakhs of pagodas. The creditors held a
lien on the grain crop, which at the time of Lord Pigot's visit
was partly cut. Directly Tanjore was restored, the Raja,
supported by British troops, seized the grain (Nos. 288, 289).
On Pigot's return to Madras a difference arose in Council as to
liability for payment of the tankas. The majority were in favour
of satisfaction by the Raja, while the minority, which included
the Governor, held that the Raja was not concerned with assign-
ments made by the Nawab. Walajah declined to pay unless
ordered by the Company to do so. He professed fear of violence
from Lord Pigot, and applied to Sir Edward Hughes for
protection (No. 288). The breach between Governor and
Nawab yawned wide. In June, 1776, Walajah writes to Palk
(No. 287) that it is evidently " his Lordship's intention to distress
and disgrace me, and he has seized every opportunity of injuring
my affairs and of hurting my honor and authority " ; and the
writer goes on to hint that Pigot has private interests to serve
by his action.
The principal creditors were Paul Benfield, the Hon. Edward
Monckton, George Smith and Reynold Adams, but all Madras
was interested. Monckton, a civil servant, had lately married
Pigot's daughter Sophia. Benfield came out to Madras in 1764
as Civil Architect and Engineer, and was employed on the works
of Fort St. George with the rank of lieutenant, though his name
was also borne on the civil list. In 1769 he resigned his appoint-
ment of Engineer to become contractor for the erection of a
rampart 3J miles in length for the defence of Black Town.
Dismissed the service in 1770 for factious conduct, he was
reinstated, but was suspended for disobedience in 1772. He
subsequently contracted for new works at Fort St. George, and
was engaged on them until 1776. Out of the profits of his
contracts he lent large sums to the Nawab. Chokappa writes
in 1774 (No. 230), " Mr. Benfield is Banker and Soukar to his
Highness the Nabob : all drafts and bills for the payment of
the kists to the Company are sent to him, and he discharges
it."
For three months following Pigot's return from Tanjore
disputes continued in Council. Benfield was supported by
George Stratton, Sir Robert Fletcher, Henry Brooke, Charles
Floyer, Archdale Palmer, Francis Jourdan and George Mackay ;
while the minority consisted of Lord Pigot, Claud Russell,
Alexander Dalrymple and J. M. Stone. The crisis came in
August. All the letters of the period are full of the events
which followed. The best accounts are those by George Baker
(No. 293) and John d'Fries (No. 310). The point immediately
xli
at issue was the representation of British interests at Tanjore.
Russell had been nominated Resident, but the Majority proposed
to cancel the appointment, send Russell on tour with the Com-
mittee of Circuit, and despatch Colonel James Stuart to command
the troops in the province and incidentally recover the Nawab's
assignments from the Raja. Orders for Stuart were drawn
up, but the President refused to sign them unless Russell also
went as Resident to watch over the Raja's interests. On the
23rd August the Majority directed the Secretary, Richard
Joseph Sulivan, to sign the orders on behalf of the President.
Sulivan required a written instruction, which was accordingly
drafted and passed round for signature. After Stratton and
Brooke had signed, Pigot intercepted the paper, charged the
two signatories with inciting the Secretary to do an unlawful
act, and moved their suspension. Sir Robert Fletcher being
absent through sickness, the motion was carried.
The Majority assembled the same evening at Benfield's
house, where, according to Chokappa (No. 295), they consulted
with Macpherson, Benfield and the Nawab's two sons. They
met again early next morning at Fletcher's residence, resolved
that the suspensions were illegal, and determined to assume
the powers of Government. They sent out notices to that effect.
On the same daj', the 23rd, Lord Pigot summoned to the Board
Richard Lathoni, Chief of Cuddalore, who had come up to join
the Committee of Circuit, and the Minority thus augmented
suspended the remaining members of the Majority, ordered
Fletcher into arrest, and offered the command of the army to
■Stuart. On Saturday, the 24th, Stuart breakfasted with Lord
Pigot, and the Council sat intermittently throughout the day at
the Fort House. When they rose the Governor invited Stuart
to supper at the Company's Gardens and offered him a seat in
his chaise. They started after dark, Pigot himself driving a
pair of spirited horses. The road lay across the Island through
a double avenue of banyan trees. When the carriage was
midway between the bridges two officers, Lieut-Colonel
Edington, Adjutant-General, and Captain Lysaght, stepped
into the road and signed to it to stop. They were supported by
an armed party of sepoys concealed in the shadow of the trees.
Lord Pigot reined in. I/ysaght shouted, " You are my prisoner,"
and Stuart ordered the Governor to get out. Pigot was hustled
into a closed carriage belonging to Benfield, which was waiting
at the spot. Lysaght, pistol in hand, followed ; an orderly
sergeant mounted behind, and the carriage with drawn blinds
was driven rapidly to the Mount, where Lord Pigot was delivered
into the custody of Major Matthew Home, commanding the
Artillery.
Stuart, who had framed the whole plan in collusion with
Fletcher, returned from the scene of arrest to the Fort House,
where the Majority were already assembled. All slept in the
Council Chamber that night. On the morning of Sunday the
xlii
25th, having suspended Russell, Dalrymple, Stone and
Lathom, they summoned the civil and military servants and
the inhabitants to hear a proclamation announcing their
assumption of Government Avith George Stratton as President.
The military officers had already received their orders from
Stuart, Among the civil servants there was some hesitation,
and 38 of them ultimately refused to acknowledge the new
Government (No. 297). On the 27th at midnight Colonel
Edington presented himself at the Mount with an order to
Major Home for the removal of Lord Pigot to an unspecified
place of detention. Pigot refused to go, and when Home
summoned the garrison troops the ex-Governor harangued them
to siich effect that they tacitly refused to exercise force.
Edington returned to Madras, his mission unfulfilled. Mean-
while Russell, who was with Lord Pigot, hurried to Sir Edward
Hughes at San Thome to demand his protection, and Hughes
left his bed for the Fort. The Majority refused to yield the
person of Lord Pigot to the Admiral, but engaged that no further
attempt should be made to remove his lordship from the Mount.
Hughes himself says (No. 303) that, both parties having appealed
to him for support, he determined to afford it to the section
which possessed power to carry on the government.
The Nawab protests (No. 301) entire innocence of complicity
in Lord Pigot's arrest, and assures Palk of his own unalterable
attachment to the Compaiiy. In a subsequent letter (No. 308)
he recalls his disapproval of the Treaty with Tanjore of 1762,
and says that Pigot at that time forced him to sign the instru-
ment. George Smith, although a ton/ca-holder on Tanjore
revenues for about Pags. 30,000, denounces (No. 297) the
revolution, and asserts that the charges against Pigot of des-
potism, venality and attempts to subvert the constitution are
unfounded. D'Fries, who mentions the sudden death of
another tanka-holdev, Reynold Adams, reports (No. 299) that
the revolution has affected the Compan3''s prestige with the
natives. He believes that the Nawab's selection of Madras as
his place of residence, though tending to develop intrigue, is
on the whole advantageous, since he can be better watched
Avhcn under the eye of Government, while his presence has
undoubtedly conduced to the prosperity of the capital, the
population of which has increased by one-third during the last
ten years. Sir Edward Hughes is of opinion (No. 303) that the
Tanjore province ought to be held by the Nawab, a British
garrison occupying the city. He thinks that the orders for
rendition would not haAe been issued if Colonel Macleane had
reached England earlier, ; and he regrets that no written treaty
has ever been concluded between the Company and the Nawab.
Charles Floyer, a member of the Majority, explains (No. 302)
the motives of his-action in the revolution, and conjures up a
farrago of surmises. He holds that Lord Pigot intended to
extract a large sum from the Raja as the reward of rendition,
xliii
and fears that Benfield's unsupported charges of venality will
prove to be only too true. He draws dark inferences from the
nomination of Russell to Tanjore, seeing that the prospective
Resident is about to marry Leonora Pigot. He points out that
the suspension of Stratton and Brooke would make Russell
Second of Council, and suggests that Pigot contemplated
resignation of the Government to his son-in-law. He makes
the point that the revolution was bloodless, and contends that
it would certainly have been otherwise if the Majority had
limited themselves to suspending the Governor instead of
arresting him. Benfield went to Tanjore (No. 307) to press his
claims on the Raja and secure proofs of Lord Pigot's venality.
He came back unsatisfied on both heads.
The Supreme Government, which had already expressed
disapproval of Pigot's attitude towards the Nawab and of his
action in Tanjore, especially in regard to the arrest of the
Nawab's manager (No. 293), determined to support the Majority
as the legal Government. Their decision reached Madras early
in October, and the Swallow, sloop of war, was at once des-
patched to Suez with full reports of the revolution. Dalrymple
carried a packet from Lord Pigot, and Colonel Capper one from
the Nawab. D'Fries considers (No. 310) that the Company
should strictly define the powers of the President in relation
to those of a majority of the Council, and issue explicit orders
as to intervention by military officers in civil disputes. In a
subsequent letter (No. 812) he mentions Colonel Monson's
death, whereby Hastings obtains a majority in the Supreme
Council and is once more free to act. Sir Robert Fletcher,
who has been ill for months with phthisis, is about to embark for
the Cape, but there is little prospect of his recovery. The
prognostication was fulfilled, for Fletcher died at Mauritius in
December before reaching his destination. Baker assigns
causes for the revolution (No. 311), and observes that Pigot
failed to maintain a good understanding with Bengal, while
members of the Majority corresponded privately with Clavering's
party.
In 1777 a partial break occurs in the Palk correspondence,
only four Indian letters of that year having been preserved.
Sir Edward Hughes announces (No. 315) that a proposal to
send Lord Pigot to England has been negatived, and says that
the Directors' orders on the reports of the revolution are
anxiously awaited. He states that Major General Bellecombe
arrived in January as Governor of Pondicherry, and that M.
Law is disgusted at being superseded. " Our friend Captain
Baker " is engaged in carrying a pipe line through the surf to
supply water to shipping. Chokappa writes (No. 314) that
Bombay refuses to recognize Stratton as Governor of Madras.
Baker observes (No. 316) that " Mr. Macpherson, a gentleman
well known (and in some degree distinguished here, though of
little standing in the Company's service)," is leaving for England
xliv
to support, it is understood, the cause of the Nawab. Tom
Palk writes (No. 317) to announce his marriage to Catharine,
daughter of Thomas Felling of the firm of Felling & de Fries.
" With respect to her accompli[sh]ments it would be absurd
in me to sound forth, but I must do her that justice to say that
they are such as no man would make the least objection to."
During the interval which elapsed before the next letter of the
collection was written several notable events occurred. After
an attack of illness brought on by chill following violent exercise
Lord Figot was brought from the Mount to the Garden House,
where, in spite of attention from Drs. Fasley and Anderson,
he expired on the 11th May, 1777. An inquest was held
by the Coroner, George Andrew Ram. The jury, of which George
Smith was foreman, brought in a verdict of wilful murder against
Stratton and the rest of the Majority, and also against Stuatt,
Edington, Lysaght and Home. The verdict was delivered in
July, but not published until September. Meanwhile, on the
31st August, John Whitehill arrived from England via Suez
after a passage of only 79 days, bearing a despatch from the
Directors, dated 11th June, addressed to " Lord Figot, our
Fresident and Governor of Fort St. George," Thomas Rumbold,
Major General Hector Munro, John Whitehill, Charles Smith,
Samuel Johnson, Feter Ferring and others. The Court
denounced the subversion of the Government by the Majority,
and ordered the reinstatement of Lord Figot, which was, however,
to be followed by his return to England by the first ship. His
successor, Thomas Rumbold, was to be aided by a Council of
only five members as named above. Stratton and the Majority
were suspended and summoned home, as was Benfield, while
Stuart was suspended for local enquiry into his conduct.
Confronted with the news of Lord Pigot's death, Whitehill
found himself the senior member of the new Government
and the only Councillor present at Madras. He summoned the
two senior civil servants at the Fresidency, Anthony Sadleir
and Quintin Crauford, to assist him, and communicated the
Directors' despatch to Stratton and the Majority, who at once
submitted to the Court's orders. Whitehill assumed office as
provisional Governor, and Smith, Johnson and Ferring joined
him from their out-stations. On the 24th September the
Coroner delivered the inquest A-erdict, and the accused were
committed for trial at Quarter Sessions. Advice was asked
of the Supreme Court, and pending its receipt the trial pro-
ceeded. In due course Chief Justice Impey and the Judges
delivered the opinion that the inquest afforded insufficient
evidence for indictment. The proceedings were accordingly
quashed. Stratton, Brooke, Floyer and Mackay were dealt
with in England and fined 1,000Z. each. Stuart remained under
suspension until December 1780, when he was tried by court-
martial for mutiny in arresting Lord Figot. Of this charge he
was acquitted on the ground that the seizure was made outside
xlv
the limits of the Fort, and therefore beyond the sphere of the
Governor's miUtary command.
The years 1778 and 1779 are covered by only sixteen letters.
Baker writes (Nos. 320, 322) that Russell, Stone, Stratton and
Brooke have already left for England, Russell marrying Leonora
Pigot the day before embarkation. He reports progress on
the fortifications of the east front of Fort St. George, and
announces that Tom Palk, lately nominated Paymaster at
Chingleput, has lost the appointment through the reinstatement
of the civil servants who were suspended by Stratton. Tom
Palk eventually received a similar post at Trichinopoly, and
became a prosperous man. Baker attributes to Wynch certain
modifications made in the original contract for water supply.
" Mr. Wynch has done me an irreparable injury ... I wish not
to live for any other thing so much as to confront that man in
a Court of Justice or in a General Court of Proprietors."
Thomas Rumbold and Major-General Hector Munro arrived
at Madras on the 8th February, 1778 (No. 322), when the former
took charge from Whitehill. Like Robert Clive, John Caillaud,
Robert Barker, Richard Smith, John Carnac, Robert Fletcher
and John Macpherson, Rumbold furnished an instance of a
man trained in Madras, who after transfer to Bengal, rose to
high position in the service. Originally appointed to Fort St.
George as a Writer in 1752, Rumbold was shortly afterwards
commissioned in the army. After serving under Lawrence in
the Trichinopoly campaigns, he accompanied Clive to Calcutta,
and was wounded at Plassey. Reverting to the civil list, he
continued to serve in Bengal, and sat in Council for three years
until 1769, when he returned to England and entered Parliament.
He was a Director of the Company from 1772 until he was
appointed Governor of Madras. Hector Munro came to India in
1761 as Major of the 89th Foot, and in 1764, when commanding
the troops at Patna in succession to Carnac, defeated the
combined forces of Mir Kasim and the Nawab Vizier at the
decisive battle of Buxar. He then returned home, and did not
see India again until he came out in 1778 to command the
Madras army. Sir Eyre Coote arrived at the end of the same
year to be once more Commander-in-Chief in India.
Colonel Ironside, writing from Calcutta in March, 1778
(No. 324), fears supersession by officers from home, and asks
for Palk's interest to procure him promotion to brigadier by
brevet, with succession to Brig. -General Giles Stibbert. He
encloses for Palk's perusal papers relating to General Clavering's
attempted usurpation of the Government in 1777. Hastings
had entrusted to his agent. Colonel Macleane, a letter of resig-
nation, which was to be presented to the Directors only under
certain conditions. A despatch from England, which reached
Calcutta in June, disclosed the tender by Macleane of the letter,
and the appointment by the Directors of Edward Wheler to fill a
vacancy in the Council, Clavering immediately assumed the
xlvi
Government, summoned Francis to sit in Council with him,
and required Hastings to give up charge. JIastings consulted
the Judges, who declared Clavering's act to be illegal. The
Council then resolved that the General had by his proceeding
vacated his seat. Further appeals to the Judges by Clavering
and Francis elicited an opinion favourable to the General on
this point, and the Council rescinded their resolution.
Clavering's death shortly afterwards is reported by Henry
Vansittart, jun., (No. 325), who expresses the view that the
Supreme Court is assuming authority which overrides the
Governor General's powers. He mentions the intrigues of the
French with the Marathas, and the intended despatch of a force
from Bengal to Bombay. A person calling himself the Chevalier
St. Lubin was the French agent at Poona. This adventured
was formerly attached as an intelligence officer to the British
Field Deputies in the first Mysore war, but was discredited.
In May, 1777, he appeared at Poona as a genuine representative
of the King of France, bearing letters and gifts for the Peshwa.
On promise of French aid Nana Farnavis, the principal Maratha
Minister, granted St. Lubin the use of the port of Chaul, where he
hoisted French colours (No. 322). Jealousy of Nana Farnavis
had led to the formation of a Maratha party pledged
to restore Raghoba to power. The Bombay Government
supported the party, and Hastings, disliking Colonel Upton's
treaty, agreed to assist. An expedition under Colonel Leslie,
who was soon superseded by Colonel Thomas Goddard, started
in 1778 to march across India to Poona or the coast with the
ostensible object of protecting Bombay from French aggression.
The Bombay Government co-operated by despatching a force
towards Poona under Colonel Charles Egerton, whom they
hampered with Field Deputies. Whe.n nearing Poona in
January, 1779, Egerton was svirrounded by the enemy and
compelled to surrender. An agreement, known as the Con-
vention of Wargaon, was made between the Marathas and the
Field Deputies, by which Raghoba was to be given up, and all
British conquests made subsequent to 1765 were to be restored.
This convention was disavowed by the Bombay Government.
Meanwhile Goddard, who had diverted his course from Poona,
arrived at Surat in February. There he was joined by a
contingent irom Madras (No. 336). Raghoba, who had fallen
into the hands of Mahadaji Sindia, escaped from custody in
June, 1779, and reached Goddard at Surat.
In March, 1778, war had broken out between England and
France, and in July Fort St. George received instructions from
home to attack Pondicherry. Edward Cotsford, returning to
Madras in August after a visit to England, and ignorant of the
state of war, relates (No. 329) how his ship was chased by the
enemy for 20 miles until she fell in with the squadron under Sir
Edward Vernon, who had relieved Hughes in the preceding year.
Siege operations were begun at the end of August under the
xlvii
direction of Major William Stevens, the acting Chief Engineer,
and on the 17th October, when the assault was about to be
dehvered, General Bellecombe, the Governor, capitulated
(No. 331). Chokappa quotes (Nos. 330, 332) the terms of sur-
render, and the arrangements for the disposal of the prisoners.
Among the British killed were Major Stevens, Captain Augustus
De Morgan, and Ensign George Baker, the last being the son
of Palk's friend of the same name. Despatches were immediately
carried home by Captain William Rumbold, son of the Governor.
Munro was knighted and Thomas Rumbold created a baronet.
The Pondicherry fortifications were demolished during 1779.
The French settlement of Mah^, near Tellicherrv, was reduced
in March, 1779, by an expedition from Madras under Colonel
Brathwaite. The operation gave umbrage to Haidar, who
received his military stores through that port. Notwithstanding
the failure of the British to fulfil the terms of the Mount treaty
of 1769, Haidar had proposed alliance in 1771, and again after
the conquest of Tanjore in 1773, but his advances, owing to
Walajah's implacable enmity, were repelled. In 1775 he
definitely ranged himself with the French, and four years later
announced that he would join them in defending Mahe. In
November, 1779, nine passengers from England via Suez,
including two ladies (No. 337), were seized by Haidar from a
Danish ship at Calicut, and seven of them were sent to Seringa-
patam.d' Mr. George Gray, formerly of the Bengal civil
service, was despatched from Madras to Haidar's capital to
procure their release and promote an alliance with Mysore.
The prisoners were liberated before Gray's arrival, but the envoy
was informed that his proposals came too late.
Basalat Jang continuing to recruit the French force in his
service, Rumbold opened direct negotiations with him. Basalat
agreed in 1779 to dismiss the force and transfer Guntiir to the
British, provided the Company would protect his dominions
and send a force at once to his capital, Adoni. This agreement,
involving a breach of the treaty of 1768, incensed the Nizam.
Basalat's French contingent went over to the ruler of the Deccan
and eventually to Haidar Ali. A force under Colonel Humphrey
Harper was ordered to Adoni from the Circars. Its route lay
through territories ruled by Haidar, but permission to pass was
not sought in advance. Harper found the road barred, and he
fell back. The attempt to penetrate his country gave Haidar
an additional grievance. Meanwhile Rumbold rented Guntiir
to Walajah (No. 335), and sent .John Hollond to Hyderabad
to claim the abolition of the tribute payable for the Circars.
This proposal exasperated Nizam Ali, who saw the treaty of
1768 flouted in all its terms. Hollond reported the situation to
Hastings, and was directed to withdraw the demand. Rumbold
suspended Hollond for disobedience, but the Bengal Council
(1) The other two, Mr. and Mrs. Pay, were detained at Calicut, and released after
three months' captivity. {Original Letters from India, Mrs. Pay, 1817.)
Dl
xlviii
reinstated him with credentials from themselves. Sir Thomas
Rumbold, having thus embroiled himself with Haidar, the
Nizam and the Supreme Government at the very time when
war subsisted with the powerful Maratha state, announced that
his health necessitated his immediate return to England. He
sailed in April, 1780, delivering charge of the Government to
the senior Councillor, John Whitehill.
Some events of Rumbold's administration are mentioned in
the few Madras letters of the period. Philip Stowey, who was
sent out by the Directors in 1778 as Civil Architect, writes
(No. 331) of plans for the enlargement of Admiralty House
in the Fort. He has been consulted about the palace at Chepauk
which Walajah is building " in the Moorish stile," but fears that
the Nawab " has gone too far to be prevailed on to alter it."
D'Fries (Nos. 333, 334, 336) alludes to the death of Colonel
Macleane in England, and of Mahfuz Khan, the Nawab's elder
brother, in India. He states that Walajah's finances are
seriously embarrassed, and that his numerous European creditors
in India and England cannot obtain payment of interest on their
loans. The Madras Treasury is depleted owing to the heavy
cost of the fortifications, and Haidar's attitude is suspicious.
Fearing trouble. Felling & de Fries counsel Palk to limit his
interests in the East. " We think your property will be safer
nearer you than at a distance. India is a country of revolution,
and we think we shall always be subject to it." Edward
Cotsford writes in 1778 (No. 329) of the " small abilities of the
present Governor and Council," and complains that his own
authority is prejudiced by Rumbold's summoning to Madras
the Zemindars of the Circars. A year later Tom Palk says
(No. 335) that the Zemindars were called up to be squeezed,
and that they have in their turn squeezed the ryots relentlessly.
Corruption is rampant in Madras, and gaming prevalent.
" The Guntoor Circar the Nabob is to have, or has it. The
Jaghire in December last was advertized to be lett, but it did
not take place because of course the Nabob paid handsomely
for it.<i) . . . Never was a man so universally disliked " as
Sir Thomas, who is not even courteous to his friends. Tom
Palk dined recently with the Governor, who sat down to a
rubber with Hall Plumer, a civil servant, and two subalterns.
Directly play began dinner was announced, and 60 guests were
kept waiting until the game was finished. In January, 1780,
the same correspondent writes (No. 337) lamenting the
continuance of his uncle's displeasure. Nothing has come of
Rumbold's promises of employment. " I do, Sir, assure you that
a King of France was never so absolute as he is here. Everything
he proposes is carried without the least opposition." The
Company is rapidly going to ruin. Sir Edward Hughes has just
arrived with a squadron to relieve Sir Edward Vernon, who goes
(1) The Nawab rented the Jagir and Poonamallee for 3 J lakhs of pagodas per
annum.
x]ix
home in an Indiaman. Colonel Goddard has taken the field
against the Marathas. D'Fries, adverting to Rumbold's im-
pending departure and Whitehill's succession, says (No. 338),
" I hope nothing will happen to require the exertion of extra-
ordinary abilities, for I believe they will not be found in our
Council." The Marathas have seized Captains Banks and
Bonnevaux while these officers were on their way from England
via Basra with despatches. Stephen Sulivan, who came out
to Madras about 1778 as Secretary and Persian Translator,
informs Palk (No. 339) that his health is as good " as when I
partook of red mullets with you in Devonshire." He finds the
emoluments of the secretaryship insufficient to meet the high
cost of living at the Presidency, and has asked his father to
obtain for him a seat in Council or the post of Resident at
Tanjore. He thinks that Laurence Sulivan is wrong in his
favourable estimate of Walajah's character. He himself con-
siders the Nawab artful, ambitious and ungrateful, and says
that Macpherson will have difficulty in proving him otherwise.
About this time Robert Palk must have relaxed his displeasure
with his nephew, for George Baker writes in February, 1780
(No. 340), that Tom Palk " is made happy by your kind remem-
Ijrance of him." Baker sends his letter by a private hand via
Suez, but fears it may fail to reach its destination, as " it is very
doubtfull whether (after what has past) an Englishman may be
suffered to pass unmolested through Egypt with a packet."
He adds that Sir Edward Hughes " is the same good man as
ever," and that Palk's nephew, Richard Welland, who is " a
charming youth, modest, manly and discreet," has been
commissioned a lieutenant.
As has been noticed, the letters in the Palk collection from the
beginning of 1777 are few in number. Between February, 1780,
and February, 1784, only a single communication from India is
found. The hiatus is unfortunate, as many notable events
occurred in the interval, particularly in Madras. Since the
blank period coincides with the duration of the second Mysore
war, the surmise is hazarded that the letters of the time may have
been handed to some historian or other interested person, who
failed to return them. The following outline of events will
serve to transport the reader across the gap without giving him
too severe a jolt.
The escape of Raghoba from the clutches of Mahadaji
Sindia and his junction with Goddard prompted the Marathas
to propose alliance with Haidar and the Nizam, and a powerful
confederacy was formed, which had for its object the expulsion
of the English from India. Haidar was to attack Fort St.
George through the Carnatic; Nizam AH to invade the Circars;
Mudaji of Berar to enter Bengal ; Sindia and Holkar were to
dispose of Colonel Goddard, while the Poona Ministers dealt
with Bombay. Goddard, however, proved too strong for bis
adversaries ; Major Popham took by assault Sindia's rock
1
fortress of Gwalior, deemed impregnable ; Hastings converted
the Raja of Berar from a foe to a friend, and detached Nizam
Ah from the confederacy by ordering the restoration of Guntur
to Basalat Jang. There remained the implacable Haidar.
Whitehill and his Council, blind to portents and deaf to warnings,
took no measures of security. On the 20th July, 1780, Haidar
issued from the pass of Changama with 90,000 men. An
advanced party seized Porto Novo : another raided San Thome
and the suburbs of the capital. For 50 miles round Madras
and 1.5 round Vellore the country was devastated. The British
army assembled at Conjeveram under Sir Hector Munro, who
directed Colonel William Baillie to join him with a force from
Guntur. When near Conjeveram Baillie was intercepted by
Tipu at Polilur, and his detachment was annihilated. Munro
retreated to Madras harassed by the enemy. Stephen Sulivan
was deputed to Bengal to entreat help. Hastings immediately
sent Eyre Coote to take command at Madras, and a force was
despatched under Colonel Thomas Deane Pearse to march down
to the Carnatic through Ganjam. Coote reached Fort St. George
on the 5th November, bearing orders for the suspension of
Whitehill for disobedience in failing to restore Guntiir ; and
Charles Smith, the senior Councillor, , became provisional
Governor.
Coote took the field in January, 1781, relieved Wandewash,
which had been gallantly defended by Lieut. William Flint, and
on the 1st July defeated Haidar in a pitched battle at Porto
Novo. Early in August he was joined by Pearse's Bengal
contingent, and on the 15th he worsted the enemy at Polilur,
the scene of BaiUie's disaster. After a further success at
Shohngarh he relieved Vellore, defended by Colonel Ross Lang.
Lord Macartney, who arrived as Governor of Madras on the
22nd June, 1781, brought news of war between England and
Holland. Munro, with the co-operation of Hughes's squadron,
took Negapatam in October. The other Dutch settlements
on the coast, Tuticorin, Sadras, Pulicat and Bimlipatam, were
also captured. The Dutch port of Trincomalee in Ceylon was
taken by Hughes early in 1782, but was surrendered to a French
naval force six months later. In January, 1782, Eyre Coote
had an apoplectic seizure, but continued to command. Shortly
afterwards Colonel Brathwaite sustained a severe reverse in
Tanjore. A French fleet under Admiral Suffren appeared on
the coast, and was repeatedly, though indecisively, engaged by
Hughes. Bombay troops operated in Malabar, and Haidar
was preparing to evacuate the Carnatic when the landing in
March of a substantial French force at Porto Novo induced
him to change his plans. Cuddalore surrendered to Tipu and
the French in April. Suffren earned lasting obloquy by
delivering to Haidar at Cuddalore in June the British crews
of his prizes.
The cost of the war drained the Company's treasuries in the
li
three Pi-esidencies. In 1781 Walajah sent his Diwan, accom-
panied by Richard SuHvan, to Calcutta, where an agreement
was concluded on the 2nd April by which the Nawab assigned
the whole of his revenues to the Company for the period of the
war. At a later date Macartney objected to relinquish the
assignment, and on this and other grounds there was friction
between him and Hastings. Chaif Sing, tributary Raja - of
B.enares, refusing to aid with supplies, Hastings visited his
capital in August, 1781, and after a rising in which the Governor
General narrowly escaped with his life, deposed the Raja.
Hastings next effected a settlement with the young Nawab
of Oudh. On the death of Shuja-ud-daula in 1775, his son
Asaf-ud-daula had succeeded as ruler, but the old man's treasure
was seized by his mother and widow, the Begams of Oudh, whose
claims were recognized by the majority in the Bengal Council.
In September, 1781, Hastings reversed their decision, compelled
the Begams to make restitution, and thus enabled Asaf-ud-daula
to discharge his debt to the Company.
On the 17th May, 1782, Hastings concluded with Sindia, as
the representative of the Maratha federation, the Treaty of
Salbai, by which the possession of Salsette was guaranteed to
the English, Raghoba was pensioned, and the son of Narayan
Rao was acknowledged as Peshwa. Haidar had now no friends
but the French. Munro resigned and sailed for England.
Coote, worn out, returned to Bengal in September. The
command devolved on General James Stuart, who had lost a
leg at the second battle of Polilur. In December Haidar died
of carbuncle at Chittoor.
Meanwhile Bombay had rendered help. In January, 1782,
Major Abington won success at Tellicherry, and Colonel Humber-
stone, after reducing Calicut, inflicted a further defeat on the
Mysore forces in April. Towards the end of the year General
Richard Mathews, formerly of the Madras army but now
commanding in Malabar, took Honavar and marched to Bednur,
which he occupied without resistance in January, 1783. Manga-
lore fell to the British a little later. These successes brought
Tipu from Coromandel to Malabar. Bednur, which he besieged
with his whole army, surrendered on the 3rd May. The garrison,
in breach of terms, was sent to Seringapatam, where Mathews
died in confinement. Tipu then in\'ested Mangalore, which
was defended by Colonel John Campbell of the 42nd Highlanders.
Sir Eyre Coote arrived once more at Madras on the 24th April,
1783, but succumbed to illness three days later. Stuart
unsuccessfully attacked Bussy at Cuddalore in June, but
hostilities with the French ceased on the 2nd July after news had
been received of the conclusion of peace in Europe. The British
commander, who had shown insubordination to the Madras
Government, was dismissed the Company's service, and on his
attempting to give orders to the King's troops, was arrested by
Macartney and forcibly deported. This proceeding prompted
lii
Amir-ul-Umara's mot, " Once General Stuart catch one Lord,
now one Lord catch General Stuart." The command of the
Madras army then devolved on General Ross Lang, a Company's
officer. Colonel William Fullarton operated successfully against
Tipu's possessions in Dindigul and Coimbatore, and at length the
Mysore ruler consented to negotiate for peace. The Com-
missioners, Anthony Sadleir, George Staunton and John
Hudleston, left Madras in November, 1783, but their passq,ge
through Mysore was artfully checked until Mangalore was
starved into surrender in the following January after a gallant
defence by Campbell for nine months against Tipu's main army.
On arriving at their destination the Commissioners found three
gibbets erected opposite their respective tents. They were
loaded with contumely, but at length, on the 11th March, 1784,
the Treaty of Mangalore was signed, which provided for the
release of captives and mutual restitution of conquests. The
survivors of the prisoners at Seringapatam and other places,
to the number of about 1,150 British and 3,000 sepoys, were
restored.
From 1784 the series of Indian letters to Sir Robert Palk,
who had been created a baronet in 1782, recommences. There
is however an isolated letter of 1783 (No. 343) from Henry
Preston, a Bengal cadet and one of Palk's many proteges, who
landed at Madras after a voyage of only 4 months and 10 days.
He mentions the death of Haidar Ali and of Sir Eyre Coote, as
well as a recent naval engagement between Hughes and Suffren.
Besides this communication there is a batch of documents
relating to the homeward voyage of Robert Palk, jun., his
death during the passage, and the difficulties encounted in
delivering his effects to his relations in England. These papers
deserve notice as illustrating the conditions of travel of the
period.
Robert Palk, jun., after suffering several seizures of an
epileptic character, was advised by the Calcutta doctors to go
to England. Passage was taken for him in the Surprise,
commander David Asquith, a country vessel owned by Colonel
Watson of Calcutta, and bound for Limerick with a packet for
the Company. Dr. Adam Burt was specially, engaged by
Government to attend the sick man during the voyage. The
ship carried only one other passenger, Major John McGowan,
who had accompanied Colonel Pearse's Bengal contingent to
Madras and served at the second battle of Polilur. The Surprise
sailed from Calcutta early in April, 1783. Dr. Burt supphes
(No. 342) Palk's medical case, and records a diary of events,
symptoms and treatment until the death of his patient on the
20th May. The deceased's " bureau and escritoire " were
opened by the captain in the presence of Dr. Burt and Major
McGowan, and an inventory was made of the money and
jewellery found therein. Captain Asquith, however, removed
all papers.
liii.
, On the 10th September the Surjjrise anchored in'the Port of
Limerick, 20 miles below the town. Dr. Burt, ignorant of Sir
Robert Palk's name and address, wrote a letter to his own agents,
Messrs. Webster of Leadenhall Street, reporting the occurrences
of the voyage for the information of the relatives of the deceased
(No. 344). He alludes to the impropriety of Captain Asquith's
conduct, especially in regard to the abstraction of papers,
mentions that two servants of Robert Palk, a European and a
Bengali, are on board, and proposes to remain at Limerick
until he receives instructions how to act. At the same time
Dr. Burt entrusted to Major McGowan, who intended to seek
out Palk's relations, a memorandum (No. 345) for their infor-
mation, together with an inventory of effects. In the former
he mentions that Robert Palk, notwithstanding that he had
paid Rs. 10,000 for his passage, was constrained by the captain,
after the ship had sailed, to promise a further sum of Rs. 1,500
for the passage of the doctor. Burt advises that any claim
made for this sum should be resisted, because he, at the captain's
request, attended the sick of the ship's company and thus
became entitled to free passage. Dr. Burt adds that the captain
and officers throughout the voyage subsisted exclusively on
the stores brought on board by the two passengers, and especially
on Palk's ample supplies. The list of those stores comprises 122
chests containing provisions in great variety, wines, spirits and
cigars, with a moderate quantity of plate, saddlery, clothing and
books. His live stock embraced 30 sheep, 10 hogs, 5 deer, 12
turkeys, 26 geese, 80 ducks and 220 fowls. An inventory of
the money and jewellery found in the bureau is also given.
About the same time Captain Asquith wrote (No. 346) to Sir
Robert Palk in Bruton Street, reporting his nephew's death,
the particulars of which are to be communicated verbally by
the chief mate, John Nimmo, who carries the Company's packet
to liOndon. Asquith also alludes to the promise of payment
of Rs. 1,500 for Burt's passage. After hearing from Sir Robert
Dr. Burt writes early in October (No. 348) explaining
Asquith's solicitude about the deceased's papers. Asquith had
lately commanded a vessel chartered from Bengal to Madras
and insured with Robert Palk and others. For private reasons
the captain took Piis ship down to Trincomalee, where she was
captured and condemned as a prize, the loss falling on the owners.
After possessing himself of Palk's papers on board the Surprise
Asquith hinted' that a claim against the underwriters might
be revived. Burt reports that all the effects are now in security,
and adds that the captain threatened to flog Palk's European
servant for refusing to relinquish his original list of stores.
The papers and valuables were ultimately'^ handed to Dr.
Burt (No. 351). The agent for the ship refused to carry the
baggage round to London, and the doctor, after making formal
protest, landed the cases, 32 in number, and delivered them
sealed to Sexton Baylie, the Surveyor of Customs. Burt was
liv
assisted by Captain Sober Hall, of Limerick, who was known
to Sir Robert. Hall suggested (No. 352) that Palk should
obtain an order from the Treasury to the Commissioners of
Customs to allow the cases to be reshipped on another vessel
for London without examination. The day following the
deposit of the baggage Burt found most of the seals broken.
Baylie, declaring that he would open everything, went off to
DubUn to lay an information before the Commissioners based
on statements made by the ship's agents regarding the contents
of the cases (No. 357). The doctor engaged a local attorney,
Henry McMahon, to watch Palk's interest, and himself posted
to London. Sir Robert being absent, probably in Devonshire,
Burt left the papers and valuables at his house in Bruton Street
on the 31st October, with a report of progress.
Meanwhile Baylie, on his return from Dublin, made a seizure
of the effects. McMahon ascertained that the Seizing Note,
though filed on the 3rd November, was dated 15th October, so
as to ensure the lapse of the legal interval for making a claim
before Sir Robert could submit one. McMahon himself tendered
a claim, which was rejected, and he then petitioned the Com-
missioners. He suggests that Sir Robert should approach
Mr. Pery, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons and a
connection of Baylie's, who might curb the Surveyor's pestilent
activities (Nos. 358, 361). Time was granted by the Com-
missioners, and Sober Hall remarks (No. 363), " Thus far is Mr.
Bailie disappointed, who flattered himself with the notion of
accelerating matters so as to have the goods condemned and
sold before there would be either a claim or tryal." The
Surveyor, however, " broke open every chest and package
belonging to Mr. Palk, rummaged and tossed the whole of his
effects " (No. 365). Dr. Burt in London made an affidavit
before the Lord Mayor of the circumstances under which the
goods were landed and delivered to Baylie (No. 366). The
Surprise sailed for London early in November, carrying Palk's
Indian servant.
Not until the middle of Jaiiuary were the effects released
and sent to Dublin in charge of the European servant, William
Young (No. 369). George Maunsell, the Collector of Limerick,
writes to Sir Robert (No. 370) that he has settled Baylie's account
for 40Z., accepting a bill drawn by Young on Thomas Maunsell
of Dublin. The last named will forward the goods to London.
Thomas Maunsell, who had been in 1757 an agent for the army
in Bengal and was a friend of Sir Robert's, reports early in
February that William Young was, during his journey from
Limerick, " taken up on a suspicion of being a highway man "
and brought before a magistrate. Young stated in examination
that he had drawn a bill for 40/. on Thomas Maunsell. The
magistrate, Luke Flood, wrote for confirmation to Maunsell,
who by good fortune was staying weatherbound in the vicinity.
Young was in due course discharged, " but lost his pistols by
Iv
the villainy of the people." The weapons were eventually
recovered. By the middle of February Maunsell obtained an
order for the effects, which had been deposited in the Dublin
Custom House, to be shipped for London in charge of William
Young.
Indian letters to Sir Robert Palk from the termination of the
second Mysore war down to the end of 1786 have been preserved.
The principal correspondents are, in the Southern Presidency,
Tom Palk, Pelling & de Fries, George Baker and the faithful
Chokappa ; and in Bengal, Henry Vansittart, jun., Thomas
Abraham and Abraham Well and.
W^riting in February, 1784, Tom Palk, who is now Paymaster
at Trichinopoly, states (No. 372) that after the restoration to
Tipu of Palghat, a strong place captured by Colonel Fullarton
in the preceding November, the garrison was attacked by a
tributary poligar and sustained considerable loss. In September
Chokappa alludes (No. 378) to the conchision of peace, and the
return of the Commissioners from Mangalore ; while George
Baker announces (No. 377) that the final settlement with Tipu
has been completed by his delivery of the forts of Satgarh and
Ambur in return for Dindigul. Colonel Pearse's contingent,
with which Captain John Kennaway is serving, is in Ganjam
on its march back to Bengal. Cuddalore and Trincomalee are
still held by the French, while the British retain Pondicherry.
The delay in transfer was due to a contention by the French that
their cession of Trincomalee was to be only formal, pending its
immediate restoration to the Dutch. This view was disputed,
and the matter was referred to the home authorities. Baker
adds that money is scarce in Madras, and that the pay of both
civil and military servants is in arrear. Reform in the system
of government is greatly needed. " God send that that which
may be adopted may be perfect in proportion to the great
length of time that has been bestowed on the investigation of
the subject." John Sulivan, Resident at Tanjore, who is about
to retire, is said to have made a large fortune by providing stores
for the army during the war. Baker alludes also to Hastings's
tour in the provinces to settle the affairs of Oudh. At Lucknow
the Governor General met the Mogul's eldest son, who had
escaped thither from Delhi to entreat British assistance for his
father. The aid which Hastings was disposed to give was
vetoed by the Council.
Chokappa reports (No. 378) that Lord Macartney is in dis-
agreement with the Supreme Government regarding the Nawab's
affairs, and on bad terms with Walajah himself ; " but his
Lordship is very honest and do[es] not receive any present nor
allowance from any body." The Nawab complains bitterly
(No. 379) of the Governor's attitude, declaring that " Lord
Macartney has brought utter ruin upon all the affairs of his
employers." Large sums from Carnatic revenues have, he
asserts, been dissipated, for particulars of which Sir Robert Palk
Ivi
is referred to James Macpherson, who had become Walajah's
agent in England on the nomination of his cousin John
Macpherson to the Supreme Council. The Nawab has a special
grievance about the transfer of certain territory to the French.
The recent treaty between England and France provided that
the village lands of Villenour and Bahour should be ceded to
Pondicherry. Walajah unwillingly assented, but is aggrieved
that the actual transfer was made by the Governor without any
recognition of the Nawab's ownership. Macartney, he says,
claimed sovereign rights, but even Bussy, an enemy, declined
to accept the Governor's contention.
Early in 1784 Tom Palk's eldest son Tom was sent home to
the care of Sir Robert, the sum of Pags. 500 being paid for his
passage (No. 372). In October his mother hopes (No. 381) that
he has safely arrived. She would like a portrait of him sent
out. The next child, Catharine, aged four, will go to England
by the next opportunity. When the time comes for Robert,
the youngest, to follow, he will, she trusts, be accompanied by
his parents. She refers to " the loss of our valuable brother "
in the Surprise. Her letter occupied a year in transit owing
to delay in despatch of the ship Pigot. Tom Palk writes at
the same time (No. 382) that the Supreme Council do not
entirely approve of the Treaty of Mangalore, because the Nawab
is not a party to it, and they have desired the Madras Select
Committee to negotiate for a revision. The present Government
of Fort St. George, he says, " gives general dissatisfaction and
disgust."
George Baker reports (Nos. 883, 388) the existence of a
mutinous spirit in the army due to non-issue of arrears of pay
and threatened withdrawal of batta. The pay of the Company's
troops was in fact twelve months behind time. Batta, drawn
by both King's and Company's forces, was to cease in part from
the 1st October, 1784, and wholly three months later. In
September the 36th Regiment took up arms, but submitted
after a ringleader had been blown from a gun. In January,
1785, the 52nd Foot mutinied at Poonamallee. Baker considers
that but for the suspension of the obnoxious orders regarding
batta a general mutiny would have occurred. The bulk of
the army was at Arcot under Brig-General Matthew Home.
The King's officers having complained of the Commandant's
privilege of selling arrack to the troops, it was ruled that future
supplies should be made by contract ; and Home was trans-
ferred to the Southern command. At a meeting of the Select
Committee in September, 1784, a personal dispute arose
between the Governor and Anthony Sadleir. Sadleir challenged
Macartney, and a duel with pistols. ensued, in which Macartney
was wounded, though not severely. Baker adds that Thomas
Abraham, a connection of Sir Robert Palk, has arrived at
Madras on his way to Bengal. His ship " has been remarkably
healthy, haveing not buryed a man since she left England."
Ivii
The same corriespondent writes in January that a copy of
Pitt's India Bill has been received. Lord Macartney waits to
hear that the bill has been passed before deciding to depart or
not, but he keeps a vessel ready. Baker mentions the sudden
death at Pondicherry of the Marquis de Bussy, which occurred
on the 7th January. " A sniall American ship (the first
belonging to the United States) from Phyladelphia arrived at
Pondicherry on the 26th of last month. The Captain and
supracargoe have been here, and are just gone back to that
place."
Orders were received from the Supreme Government in
January, 1785, for the mutual rendition, as between the British,
French and Dutch, of places taken during the war, and Charles
Floyer was appointed English Commissary for the transfer.
Pondicherry and Cuddalore were restored at once (No. 389).
Pelling & de Fries report in June (No. 400) that Trincomalee
has been delivered to the Dutch, who, however, have not yet
taken possession of their coast factories owing to their war with
the Malays. The Dutch power is considered to be on the
decline. The French are limiting themselves to commerce,
keep only a small garrison at Pondicherry and make no attempt
to reconstruct the defences.
The deplorable effects of the war are noticed by several
correspondents. George Baker writes in October, 1784 (No.
383), that the Carnatic is desolated, depopulated, uncultivated
and depri\'ed of its manufactures, while its stock of cattle is
exhausted. Tom Palk says in the following May (No. 399) that
" from the Colleroon to Arcot the country is almost laid waste
from the want of inhabitants to cultivate." The cost of the
war fell heavily on all the Presidencies. In Madras the Govern-
ment could not meet the salaries of their civil servants or the
. pay of the army. The troops were mutinous. Money was
scarce and credit low. William Wynch writes early in 1785
(No. 390), "It is now with the greatest difficulty even a
trifling loan can be obtained from a black man." Arrears of
salary are paid in bills, which are at 50 per cent, discount, yet
Lord Macartney draws his full stipend in coin. " Nothing but
the most disagreeable circumstances have attended us lately,
duels, dissensions in Council, and mutiny among the King's
troops." Pelling & de Fries report in June (No. 400) that the
Company's debt in India is upwards of seven millions sterling,
to clear which not less than fifteen years of peace are needed.
The Company's bonds stand in Madras at 40 per cent, discount,
in Bengal at 25 per cent., and in Bombay, where no interest
has been paid for four years, at 70 jper cent. Tom Palk alludes
(No. 401) to the distressed condition of the sepoys at Trichin-
opoly : " BeUeve me. Sir, I have seen the native troops
perishing in the streets, selhng their children for a rupee, and
it is not a month ago that they were begging about the canton-
ments almost in the same condition."
Iviii
In Bengal salaries were ruthlessly cut down. Abraham
Welland writes in December, 1785 (No. 407), that Richard
Kennaway's monthly income is reduced from Rs. 2,000 to
Rs. 500, while his own modest stipend has been diminished by
Rs. 400. Many civil servants have resigned ; some to reside
at the foreign settlements of Serampore, Chinsurah and Chander-
nagore, where living is cheap ; others to return to Europe.
The commander of one Indiaman has received no less than a
lakh and a half of rupees for passenger fares alone. Welland
adds that a petition to the House of Commons is being drawn
up at Calcutta protesting against certain clauses of the India
Act of 1784. A year earlier the same correspondent was
discoursing (No. 380) to his uncle Sir Robert on the minimum
number of indispensable servants. " How very much times are
altered since you was in India, when a person was satisfied with
one or two servants ! I can assure you a Writer in Bengal can not
now exist under an establishment of less than thirty. The
goodness of Mr. Hastings to the black people has lain us under
this imposition."
Henry Vansittart, jun., alludes in December, 1784 (No. 386),
to his marriage in the preceding year to Catherine Powney,
and the birth of a son. Hastings, who returned from tour to
find that he had " had the misfortune to lose his only friend in
Council, Mr. Wheler," has announced his approaching departure
from India. Vansittart & Kennaway ask (No. 387) for instruc-
tions regarding the estate of Robert Palk, jun. The only property
remaining in India is a house in Calcutta worth Rs. 50,000 and
some Company's bonds. Palk's legacy of 2,000Z. to his brother
Tom is set off by the latter's debt of practically equal amount.
Their relatives, however, subsequently consented to annul
this debt, as well as one incurred by Abraham Welland to
extricate his brother Richard from difficulties due to extrava-
gance (Nos. 414, 452). Rawson Hart Boddam, Governor of
Bombay, writes in March, 1785 (No. 394), about a debt to Sir
Robert Palk from the estate of the late E. V. Lane. He deplores
the departure of Hastings, and observes that the recent
reduction of the Council to a Governor, two civilians and the
Commander-in-Chief affects the prospects of the senior servants
in Bombay, who would retire if they could. He adds that " the
late rapid progress and success that has attended Mahadjee
Sindia in now being possessed of the whole power at the Court
of Dilly . . . forebodes no very favourable prospects from so
able and enterprizing a genius."
Major John Shortt writes to Sir Robert from Madras (No. 391)
that his promotion has been stopped for some reason which he
is unable to ehcit. " I cannot charge myself with any thing
more than being too hospitable heretofore, which, as' it has
proved prejudicial to my interest, I will in future study to
correct". Sitaram Pandit, revenue accountant of Vizagapatam,
draws attention (No. 392) to the persistent oppression of the
lix
landholders of the Chieacole Circar by the powerful and truculent
Zemindar Sitaram Raz, and encloses copies of petitions which
had been submitted to Rumbold, Macartney and Hastings.
Captain Francis Swain Ward, a well known Indian artist,
furnishes Richard Kennaway (No. 396) with a receipt for
subscription to the publication of his Views of Hindoo Temples,
Buildings, etc. ; while a painter of greater distinction, Ozias
Humphry, writes in May, 1785, from the Cape, on his way to
India, bemoaning the retirement of Hastings, the death of
Wheler, and the departure of Sir John D'Oyly, to all of whom
he carried letters, and entreating Sir Robert Palk to recommend
him to the succeeding Governor General (No. 397).
In May, 1785, orders were received from home directing the
surrender of Walajah's assignment in consideration of an annual
payment by him of Pags. 12 lakhs on account of his debt to the
Company and private creditors and Pags. 4 lakhs towards
current charges (No. 403). Pelling & de Fries give credit to
Colonel John Call (No. 400) for his efforts on behalf of the
creditors. Lord Macartney was so dissatisfied with the Court's
orders that he sailed for Bengal on the 4th June, resigning from
Vizagapatam on the 8th. Pending the arrival of his successor,
the Chair was occupied by Alexander Davidson, who had Sir
John Bailing, Commander-in-Chief, and James Daniell as his
Councillors. General Robert Sloper, Commander-in-Chief in
India, also had a seat in Council during his stay in Madras.
Pelling & de Fries say that Macartney's departure was accele-
rated by his reluctance to associate with Amir-ul-Umara, who
was managing the Nawab's affairs. A despatch nominating
Lord Macartney Governor General reached Madras on the 16th
July and was forwarded at once to Calcutta, but he declined the
appointment and sailed for England on the 10th August (No.
403). John Macpherson accordingly remained in control of
the Supreme Government. Abraham Welland remarks of
Macpherson (No. 409) that " his abilities are no ways suited to
it, nor indeed are any of his coadjutors, particularly Mr. Stables,
whose head is too thick ever to cut a conspicuous figure." The
Madras Government, before surrendering the assignment,
demanded security from the Nawab for the payment of the
stipulated 16 lakhs of pagodas. This he was unable to furnish
(No. 403), but by January, 1786, he was faithfully executing
his contract (No. 412). Pelling & de Fries say that " the
distresses of individuals from not having received any part of
the Nabob's debt for so long a space of time are great, and affect
the trade and welfare of the Settlement." The Government
continued to be in financial difficulty ; arrears of army pay
were still outstanding. Company's bonds stood at a heavy
discount, and no funds were available for the Investment. The
writers add that James Daniell, who is retiring, will be replaced
in Council by Charles Floyer. Daniell was nominated by the
Directors to succeed the next Governor, but he sailed the day
before the news reached Madras (No. 422).
Ix
Not long after the conclusion of the Treaty of Mangalore
there were rumours of approaching trouble between Tipu on
one side and the Marathas and Nizam on the other (No. 383).
Tipu set up a claim to Bijapur in the Nizam's dominions, while
the Marathas, who hoped for British aid (No. 403), pressed for
arrears of tribute from Mysore. Pelhng & de Fries, writing
in January, 1786 (No. 412), say that Madras has had no trading
intercourse with Mysore since the peace, the passes from the
Carnatic being jealously guarded by Tipu. A report of the
Sultan's death (Nos. 412, 430), sedulously spread by himself,
was commonly credited, and Macpherson even despatched an
envoy to the supposed new ruler. Tom Palk says in March
(No. 431), " The Nizam and Marattoes have actually taken the
field with a view of attacking Tippoo, who is not dead as was
the general belief for two months . . . From hence you may
infer that we keep ourselves exceedingly ignorant of what passes
beyond even the walls of Madras ... I cannot penetrate
Tippoo's real design by feigning himself dead and keeping the
gates of Seringapatam shut for so long a time, which we know
beyond a doubt to have happened." Felling & de Fries
write (No. 432), " Storms brewing around us. A formidable
army of the Marattas . . . together with the Nizam's army
have crossed the Kistna and invaded Tippoo's country . . .
Tippoo has a very considerable force, but from his tyrannical
disposition don't stand so well in the affection of his subjects as_
old Hyder did, whose political abilities were infinitely superior."
The same correspondents mention in June (No. 441) that the
Nizam had returned to Hyderabad, though his army remained
to co-operate with the Marathas (No. 456). Instead of directly
facing his enemies, Tipu made a diversion by devastating the
district of Adoni, which had passed to the Nizam on the death
of his brother Basalat Jang. Desperately defended by Muhabat
Jang, son of Basalat, Adoni fort was relieved by the confederates
at the end of June, but was immediately evacuated (No. 460).
Operations were then transferred to the north of the Tuhga-
bhadra, and continued till the close of the year (Nos. 467, 469).
Tipu was generally successful, but he nevertheless negotiated
with Holkar for peace, and a treaty was concluded in January,
1787.
Davidson continued to occupy the Madras Chair pending the
appointment of a permanent successor to Macartney. Tom
Palk writes (No. 422), " Lord M. is certainly very culpable in
leaving the Chair to so weak and indolent a man as fills it at
present, that never was capable of conducting even his own
domestick affairs." And (No. 431), " Every one is dissatisfied,
and looking out with the most painful anxiety [for] the speedy
arrival of Governor Campbell." Pelling & de Fries say
(No. 432), " We want much an able Governor : our present
administration is but a feeble one." Major-General Sir Archi-
bald Campbell, an oificer of the Royal Engineers, who had been
Ixi
Chief Engineer of Bengal, had served in North America and had
been Governor of Jamaica, arrived on the 6th April, 1786, and
assumed charge of the Madras Government. A few months later
he was also appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Coast army
(No. 460), whereupon Sir John Calling returned to England.
A change was also made in Bengal, where Macpherson's rule
was no more acceptable to Thomas Abraham than was David-
son's in Madras to Thomas Palk. Abraham writes (No. 425),
" I see everything still goes by interest notwithstanding the late
Act of Parhament. I can convince you of this no better than
by telling you that the greatest part of the many appointments
that have been given away lately have been given to Scotch-
men." And (No. 434), " It is a Scotch Government, and very
few but Scotchmen get any thing." Lord Cornwallis arrived
at Madras on the 22nd August, 1786, and a few days later sailed
for Calcutta (Nos. 456, 460), where he relieved Macpherson
on the 12th September (No. 461).
Henry Vansittart, jun., and Richard Kennaway, as administra-
tors of the Indian estate of Robert Palk, jun., bring to notice
the case of Simeon Droz, a Bengal civil servant, who was
indebted to the estate (No. 419). Droz gave Palk a bond for
Rs. 9,000 for the purchase from him of " a Filature or building
for winding silk, in the neighbourhood of Cossimbuzar," but he
failed to receive possession because " Mr. Palk, holding a contract
for raw silk under another name with the Board of Trade,
continued to employ the Filature in the provision of his silk."
Before he sailed Palk sold the property to another person, but
the administrators, having no power to cancel Droz's bond,
which was found among the deceased's papers, refer the matter
to Sir Robert. Droz went home at this time, and on arrival
wrote to his friend General Caillaud (No. 453), asking him to
represent his case. Vansittart announces in August (No. 455)
that the estate is about to be wound up, and that he himself
intends to return to England. Six weeks later he was dead, a
victim to climate (No. 464).
During 1786 the financial situation improved steadily. Bengal
assisted the other Presidencies with money (No. 409), and under-
took to pay the King's troops in Madras (No. 432). The arrears
due to the Company's forces, however, continued unpaid, and
credit remained low, Government securities being discounted
at 35 to 40 per cent. Permission was then granted by the
Directors for the liquidation of bonds to the extent of Rs.
6 crores, say, six millions sterling, by bills on England at rates
of exchange to be settled by the Supreme Government (No. 425).
The rate fixed for Madras was only 7s. per pagoda (No. 461),
which Felling & de Fries consider will be unacceptable. The
measure helped, however, to restore credit (No. 441). A small
bank estabhshed by Hastings in Calcutta in 1773 had been
abolished by Clavering's party, but in 1786 proposals were made
for a " General Bank of India " with a capital of Rs. 20 lakhs
Ixii
in 100 shares, of which 75 were to be allotted to Bengal, 15 to
Madras and 10 to Bombay (No. 434). Felling & de Fries
write frequently from Madras to report that Walajah is paying
the kists or instalments of his annual subsidy of 16 lakhs of
pagodas with surprising regularity, though the Government
is less prompt in discharging the share due to the private
creditors (No. 441, etc.). A settlement with the creditors was
made in December, 1786, half in cash and half in bills on
Masulipatam (No. 469).
Thomas Felling writes to Sir Robert Falk in 1786 (No. 433) on
behalf of two of his grandsons, who, on the death of their father,
Captain Thomas Gibson, were admitted by Hastings " Minor
Cadets on the Bengal Establishment." When very young they
were sent to England, but were required to present themselves
in India at the age of 14 or be struck off the list of cadets. The
boys are now 16 and 15, and Felling represents that it" would
be ruinous to their education to bring them out before 1788,
when he wishes them to enter the Bengal Army. George Baker
mentions (No. 430) the settlement of a dispute about the site
of a new British cantonment at Sheveram, between Conjeveram
and Chingleput, which encroached on the Nawab's territory.
Davidson, Sir .John Dalling, the Nawab and his son Amir-ul-
Umara met at the spot, an exchange of land was effected, and
the cantonment received the name of Walajabad. The barracks
were abandoned in 1860 as unhealthy. . Chokappa records
(No. 460) the formation by Sir Archibald Campbell of Boards
of Re^'enue and Trade, each consisting of a president and three
members. The Committee of Circuit continues to function.
Tom Falk had sent his eldest son Tom home in February,
1784, but it was not until August, 1785 (No. 401), that he was
able to acknowledge the receipt of news of the little boy's
arrival at Haldon House, and of Sir Robert's intention of
establishing him at the school of Ottery St. Mary. Thither
young Tom duly went, and among the papers in the collection
is hi.s. first school bill (No. 405). His father, to whom another
son was born in 1785 (No. 433), prospered at Trichinopoly, and
remitted substantial sums to England (No. 442). In September,
1786, he writes (No. 457) that he has about 10,000Z. at his credit,
besides Company's paper for Fags. 60,000. He hopes to go
home in January, 1788, but " fortunes are not to be made so
rapidly as before the war. Feople in my situation have never
made them by their employs, but by loans of money to the
country at, as you know, an high interest ; but it is no longer safe
to do it on any terms ; and the Nabob, since the restitution
of the assignment, has not practised that good old custom."
Considering " my having been 12 years without any employ,
and finding myself much in debt on my coming here, you will
not think I have been idle." Tom Falk proposed to send his
children Catharine and Robert to England in January, 1787,
under the care of his wife's sister Mrs. Lang. The family,
Ixiii
accompanied by Ensign William Preston, started for Madras
m November (No. 465), but when within 80 miles of their
destmation were disappointed to learn that General Ross Lang
had changed his mmd and would not sail that season (No. 468)
Ihe children probably went home with their parents a vear
later. In 1788 Tom Palk acquired the estate of Butterford in
the parish of North Huish, near Totnes.'D
With the year 1786 the Indian correspondence ceases abruptly
There remain a few letters written to Sir Robert by friends in
England, and a number relating to a continental tour made
by his son Lawrence Palk. These will be briefly noticed
The Rev. J. Bradford writes from Ideford (No. 443) on behalf
of his eldest son, for whom he desires a clerkship in a public
office or a bank.^^ He had intended the boy to embark in trade,
but finds that " the premiums they expect in any reputable
shop are not less than four or five hundred pounds," a sum
which is beyond his means. The Rev. Samuel Badcock,
nonconformist minister of South Molton, who was a frequent
contributor to literary magazines, corresponded with Sir Robert
Palk about a proposed history of the County of Devon, which
he undertook to prepare. He received from Sir Robert and
catalogued a collection of MSS. bearing on the subject (No.
420), and consulted documents obtained from various sources,
especially from the Coffin Library at Portledge near Bideford
(No. 449). He resolved in 1786 to resign his office and enter
the Estabhshed Church (No. 462), and he was duly ordained.
The county history, which Sir Robert appears to have financed
(No. 470), was uncompleted at the time of Badcock's death
in 1788.
Sir Robert Palk's children were four in number. The two
elder, Anne and Lawrence, were born in India and brought home
when very young by their parents. Catherine and Emelia
were born in England in 1768 and 1774, and died at the ages
of 14 and 12 respectively. Lawrence Palk appears, judging
from allusions in the correspondence, to have been educated
at Oxford. In 1785, when he was 19 years old, his father
determined to send him abroad to " supply the want of study
at home, and to teach him to be a good citizen " (No. 447).
A Swiss gentleman named D'lvernois was chosen to accompany
and advise the young man, and to regulate his expenditure.
From an account rendered in March, 1786 (No. 429), it appears
that the tour began in July, 1785, and that a Mr. Beeke
(probably the Rev. Henry Beeke, Fellow of Oriel) travelled
with Lawrence and D'lvernois to Switzerland, visiting Neuchatel
St. Gall, Constance and Berne. Beeke then returned to England,
while the other two established themselves for the winter at
Neuchatel, whence both corresponded frequently with Sir
Robert Palk, D'lvernois writing always in French. The earliest
letter preserved is of December, 1785 (No. 406), in which
(1) History of Devonshire, Lysons, 1822.
Ixiv
Lawrence expresses pleasure at his eldest sister's engagement
to Sir Bourchier Wrey, reports his own progress in the French
language, and alludes to indisposition following dental treat-
ment. Six weeks later D'lvernois gives details (Nq. 415) of
the singular operation performed on Lawrence by an itinerant
dentist, by which, after two overcrowded teeth had been
extracted, one of them was cut to shape and replaced.
D'lvernois hints (No. 408) that his charge finds life at Neuchatel
too comfortable, and that his association with a Mr. Spencer,
who is staying in the same house as themselves, distracts his
attention from his studies. Sir Robert is therefore urged to
direct an early move to Germany, and to provide recommenda-
tions for the Courts of Dresden, Berlin and Vienna. Spencer
returned to England in February, 1786, his friend accompanying
him as far as Besangon (No. 417). Lawrence showed unwilling-
ness to leave Neuchatel, where he received much attention
from the residents and made many friends. Early in March
he writes to his father (No. 427), lamenting his sister Emelia's
illness. Regarding himself he says, evidently in reply to an
admonition, " I willingly promise that I never will propose
to any lady to whom either you or my mother object ; and
your goodness to me upon every occasion makes me flatter
myself that you would not wish to oblige me to make choice
of one that I do not approve. Your fortune is certainly of
your own acquiring, and I would not wish to have the least
share of it if you have the least reason to imagine I do not
deserve it."
After a farewell ball given by Lawrence to Neuchatel society
in acknowledgment of hospitality received, D'lvernois, whose
sisters came over from Geneva to attend it, announces (No. 429)
that a move to Vienna will be possible early in April. He
considers that by the time Lawrence retxu-ns to England he
will be able to speak French " if not like Mr. Spencer without
accent, at any rate sufficiently well for an ambassador, the
standard generally aimed at by young Englishmen." In
April Lawrence Palk writes from Constance (No. 43.5), whence
they are about to start for Munich en route to Vienna. He
alludes to his sister's marriage to Sir Bourchier Wrey, which
took place on the 14th March, and expresses regret at leaving
Neuchatel, where he had met Colonel Abraham Bonjour, an
old acquaintance of Sir Robert's, and had received kindness
from the sister of the late Colonel Des Plans. Des Plans died
at Madras in 1772, leaving his property to his widow and two
daughters, with remainder to his sister. The daughters died,
and the widow married again. On her death in 1776, her second
husband took possession, and his claim was confirmed by the
Mayor's Court. The sister hopes that Sir Robert may be able
to represent her case to the authorities in India, and Lawrence
encloses a copy of Des Plans' will with an explanatory
memorandum. He goes on to mention the existence of a
Ixv
colony of Genevans established at Constance, engaged in the
industries of watchmaking and enamelling. " The tyranny of
the aristocrats ever since the late revolution, and the means
they employ to oppress the natives have rendered Geneva
disgusting to its inhabitants." The Emperor encourages the
colonists, granting them not only religious freedom but actual
autonomy.
Not until the travellers reach Vienna does D'lvernoisi divulge
the real cause of Lawrence Palk's reluctance to quit Neuchatel
after his protracted stay of six months (No. 436). The youth
had become enamoured of a young lady who was both esteemed
and attractive. She returned his affection, and her parents
offered encouragement. The final interviews were of a heart-
rending character, but Lawrence resisted the temptation to
make any promise. D'lvernois says that his own previous
silence on the subject was due to fear of alarming Sir Robert
unnecessarily ; but the father probably had some inkling of
what was in progress, as he appears to have delivered to his
son in February a homily on marriage.
By the beginning of June Lawrence finds Vienna dull (Nos.
437, 438), the Emperor having gone to Luxembourg, and the
nobles retired to their country properties. He frequently
visits Prince Kaunitz, "the Oracle of Vienna," whom he
admires and appreciates as a great politician, and he has been
received by the Countess of Thun and by the Russian
Ambassador. The travellers then make an excursion into
Hungary, visiting the seat of Prince Esterhazy and appreciating
the Belvidere in his gardens " as being entirely different from
the German taste, who admires nothing but what is entirely
covered with gilding and awkward ornaments." They went
on to Presburg, " an ugly, ill-built town," whose castle was
occupied by 600 young men preparing for the church. Here
it was that the late Empress, Maria Theresa, presented her
infant son, the present Emperor Joseph II., to the Hungarians,
who swore to defend him. " Little did they think that the
child would one day prove their greatest opjwessor." After
a few days' stay with the Countess de Friez at Feslau, near
Vienna (No. 439), the travellers started for Berlin towards the
end of June, halting at Leipzig to visit the seat of Prince Leopold
of Anhalt-Dessau.
At Berlin, where they had an introduction to the British
Ambassador, Lord Dalrymple, afterwards Earl of Stair, they
find that the King of Prussia, Frederick the Great, is in poor
health and unable to see strangers (No. 444). He remains at
Potsdam with a chosen party of his generals (No. 446).
Lawrence and his mentor were presented to the Queen and
princes, and dined with the Crown Prince at Potsdam (No. 447).
Towards the end of August the King was seriously ill and unable
to move without assistance. His demise may give rise to
trouble, for " the Emperour has his eyes continually fixed on
Ixvi
Silesia, keeps his troups in readiness, and waits only for that
event to attempt the conquest of that province which has been
so unjustly ravished from him." The Prussian forces are
strong, but unless the new king increases their pay " it is feared
that nearly half his arrny will desert upon the first breaking
out of a war."
Quitting Berlin, the travellers proceeded at the end of July
to BruAswick and Hanover. At the former place they were
received by the Duchess, sister of George III (No. 448), and at
the latter dined with the Duke of York (No. 451). At Gottingen
they were presented to the princes, with whom they supped.
There they encountered some of Lawrence's Oxford friends,
and met Sir Isaac Heard, Garter King of Arms, who brought
news of Sir Robert Palk. On arriving at Wesel on the 20th
August (No. 454) they heard of the death of Frederick the
Great on the 17th and the accession of the Crown Prince as
Frederick William II. " Notwithstanding the trouble and
confusion this event cannot fail of producing in every part of
the Prussian. territories, it seems here to be the general opinion
that the Emperour, actuall^r in Transylvania and far removed
from the frontiers of Silesia, will not strike a blow in attempting
to regain this part of the possessions anciently belonging to
his family." At Wesel Lawrence received alarming accounts
of the health of his mother and youngest sister. At his father's
request, however, he determined to continue his tour through
Holland and then return to England, relinquishing the original
intention of making a prolonged stay in Paris.
His final letter is written from the Hague on the 8th September,
1786 (No. 458). The British Minister, Sir James Harris,
afterwards Earl of Malmesbury, to whom he has a letter of
recommendation, is much occupied with " the Prince of Orange's
affairs, which seem to grow every day worse and worse, insomuch
that a civil war appears now to be almost inevitable." The
States have this day resolved to deprive their ruler of the
Stadtholdership. The Prince is supported only by Guelderland,
being opposed by six provinces with forces five times larger
than his own. His brother-in-law of Prussia has sent the Count
de Goertz to endeavour to effect a reconciliation. Lawrence
refers to news of a declaration of war by Russia on Turkey,
and to a rumour that Gibraltar has been sold to the Empress
for two miUions sterling. This report he hopes is true, " as
it has been sufficiently proved that this fortress is of no real
use to us, but on the contrary puts us to a much greater expence
than we can at present afford." He has been greatly struck
by the prosperous condition of Holland as contrasted with the
miserable deserts of Westphalia, and by the wonderful neatness
and cleanhness of the Dutch homes. He and D'lvernois
propose to move to Brussels in a few days by way of Rotterdam
and Breda. He is glad to hear of his mother's improved health,
but notes that no allusion is made to his sister in his father's
Ixvii
last letter. In point of fact Emelia passed away on the 14th
August, and the intelligence was doubtless withheld purposely
from her brother.
The picture of Lawrence Palk presented by these letters from
himself and D'lvernois is one of a shy and sensitive youth of
transparently open character, who is amiable and considerate,
a dutiful son, an affectionate brother and a general favourite.
His mother died in 1788, and his father ten years later, when
Lawrence Palk succeeded to the baronetcy and the Haldon
estates.
The editor cannot conclude this report on the Palk letters
without acknowledging the liberality of their owner, Mrs.
Bannatyne, in placing the documents at his disposal and
affording the most ample facilities for their examination and
study. He has received invaluable help in his work from Sir
Murray Hammick, K.C.S.I., CLE., and Mr. William Foster,
CLE. The former has kindly examined that part of the
original collection which is now preserved in the Manuscripts
Department of the British Museum, and has consulted many
printed books ; while the latter has not only communicated a
store of information from the records of the India Office and
from his own wide knowledge of the subjects discussed, but has
read and criticized the proof sheets of this work. The editor
is indebted also to Mr. John S. Amery for particulars of the
Palk family, to Mr. Demetrius C Boulger for notes on the
Marathas, to Mr. Stephen Wheeler for information concerning
sundry Anglo-Indian notables, to Mr. Hugh R. Vibart for
research in the British Museum, and to the Rev. Frank Penny's
History of the Church in Madras for details of the ecclesiastical
portion of Sir Robert Palk's career.
Henry Davison Love,
Colonel, R.E., retired.
Ixix
LIST
OF
CALENDAKED DOCUMENTS.
Serial
Date.
From
At
To
No.
1755
Oct. 8
Col. Stringer Lawrence
Fort St. George ...
Admiral Charles . . .
Watson
1
1758
Feb. 5
John Pye
Bombay
—
2
1760
Nov. 10
William Fergusson
Ayr
Robert Palk
3
1763
Mar. 16
Lord Egremont
Court of St. James's
Maj. Gen. Lawrence,
&c.
Robert Palk
4
1765
Sep. 27
Fra. Salvator a Sanctis
San Thorn 6
5
1766
April 3
Nawab Walajah
—
„
6
„
Oct. 18
Memorandum of Miles run by ship Pacific
7
„
Dec. 4
Robert James ...
India House
Maj. Gen. Lawrence
8
,,
,, 18
Henry Moore ...
Ship Osterley
Robert Palk
9
1767
Jan. 25
Robert Palk
Ship Lord Camden
William M. Goodlad
10
,,
., 25
Ensign J. Carpenter . .
Trichinopoly
Robert Palk
11
,,
Feb. 15
George Vansittart
Madras
11 ■ • ■
12
,,
,, 19
Robert Palk, jun.
Port St. George . .
,, ...
13
,,
Mar. 3
Chokappa Chetti
,,
,,
14
„
„ 12
Mary Powney ...
11
,,
15
,,
„ 15
Muperala Kistnaiya, &c
„
„
16
,,
,. 16
George Vansittart
Calcutta
,,
17
,,
., 16
Rebecca Casamaijor ..
Fort St. George . . .
„
18
,,
„ 19
Colonel John Call
Madras
,,
19
J,
„ 21
J)
,, ... ■ . ■
20
,,
„ 22
Charles Bourchier
Fort St. George • . .
„
21
J,
„ 22
WiUiam M. Goodlad ...
,)
22
,j
April 3
George Vansittart
Midnapur ...
Anne Palk
28
„
„ 3
Chokappa Chetti
Port St. George • • .
Robert Palk
24
jj
6
Colonel John Call
Madras
„
25
,,
„ 7
George Puruell. . .
Fort St. George . . .
.,
26
^,
,. 7
Robert Palk, jun.
Port William
,,
27
., 11
James Johnson
Fort St. George . . .
,,
28
1^
„ 15
John M. Stone
I » ■ ' *
,.
29
,,
„ 15
John Pybus
St. Thorn a,s's Mount
„
30
J,
„ 18
Henry Brooke ...
Fort St. George . . .
„
31
„
„ 16
William M. Goodlad ...
,,
..
32
,,
Oct. 30
George Smith ...
„
.,
33
,^
Nov. 4
John Calland
,,
34
^^
„ 4
Muperala Kistnaiya, &c.
.>
,.
35
„ 5
Nawab Walajah
„
Maj. Gen. Lawrence
36
5
Prince Amir-ul-Umara
,,
37
"
„ 15
Robert Palk
Spring Gardens,
London
Wilham M. Goodlad
38
N.D.
Editor Mmning ...
39
Chronicle
Robert Palk
—
Mr. S.
40
j»
Laurence Sulivan
_
Robert Palk
41
Ixx
Serial
Date.
From
At
To
No.
1768, Feb. 20
Oapt. Thomas Madge . . .
Khammamett
Robert Palk
42
„ Mar. 1
Robert Palk
—
WiUiam M. Goodlad
43
„ 28
William Aldersey
Port William
Robert Palk
44
„ Apl. 25
John Oalland
Port St. George • . .
,,
45
.. 28
T. Orton
Vellore ...
„
46
„ May 2
James Bourchier
Madras
..
47
„ 7
George Smith
Fort St. George ...
..
48
7
Tom Palk
OS Cape of Good
Hope
,,
49
7
Rev. John Thomas
Port St. George ...
.,
50
„ 10
Ramakistna
II ■ ■ ■
,)
51
„ 12
William M. Goodlad ...
II •■ ' * * '
.,
52
„ 19
Laurence Sulivan
Great Ormond St.
II
53
„ Sept. 6
George Vansittart
Midnapur ...
II
54
„ 30
Tom Palk
Camp near Kolar
II
55
„ Oct. 4
Kitoria Sloper ...
Cuddalore
II
56
., 9
Jane Morse
. Port St. George • . .
II
57
., 16
Capt. Thomas Madge -. •
. Samulkota
>>
58
„ 24
Lieut. Thomas Palk • ■ ■
II ■ • •
II • • •
59
„ 27
G eorge PurneU ...
. Fort St. George . . .
,,
60
.. —
Nicholas Morse
61
1768, Nov. 1
Robert Palk
. London
William M. Goodlad
62
„ 22
,,
63
„ Dec. 5
,.
,,
,,
64
1769, Jan. 5
George Vansittart
. On the road to
Midnapur
Robert Palk
65
,, Feb. 28
Nicholas Morse
. Port St. George ...
,,
66
,. 28
Certificate of President and Council, Port St
. George
67
„ Mar. 9
Bamakistua
. Port St. George . . .
Robert Palk
68
„ 11
WUliam M. Goodlad ..
,,
,, ...
69
,. 17
Robert Palk '
. London
William M. Goodlad
70
,, May 16
Capt. Thomas Madge • •
. EUore
Robert Palk
71
,, June 1
Jane Morse
. Port St. George . . .
,, ...
72
„ 15
Josias Du Pr6
II ■ * *
,,
78
,. 26
Nicholas Morse
1, • • '
74
„ 27
John M. Stone
■
„
75
„ 28
Nicholas Morse
„
76
., 28
Ramakistna
„
77
„ 29
Charles Bourchier .,
„
78
.. 30
William M. Goodlad ..
II
„
79
„ Nov. 3
Abraham de Paiba
. London
„
80
„ 5
Robert Palk
,, ... . . .
William M. Goodlad
81
„ 19
Sir Robert Barker
. Calcutta ...
Robert Palk
82
„ Dec. 3
George Vansittart
,,
.,
83
„ 22
Robert Palk, jun.
,,
,,
84
N.D.
Estimate of Charges of
Coast Army, &c.
85
1770, Jan. 12
Lieut. Thomas Palk . .
. Kondapalli
Robert P.alk
86
., 23
Robert Palk
. Spring Gardens . . .
His attorneys
87
.. 29
Warren Hastings
. Fort St. George . . .
Robert Palk
88
„ 31
Tom Palk
•
89
„ Feb. 5
,,
,,
„
90
.. 6
WilUam M. Goodlad ..
•
91
,. 25
Robert Palk, jun.
. Ingerlee (Hijili) ...
92
„ Mar. 15
Robert Palk
. London
. WilUam M. Goodlad
93
ixxi
Date.
1770, April 3
7
.; 8
N.D.
1770, June 16
,, Aug. 9
„ Sept. 5
„ 8
„ 16
„ 19
„ 30
„ Oct. 1
1
1
„ 4
9
,. 12
,. 12
„ 12
„ 12
„ 12
.. 12
„ 12
„ 12
„ 12/l.S
,, Dec. 7
., 13
1771, Jan. i
„ 21
„ 22
„ Feb. 2
5
8
8
.. 26
„ Mar. 14
„ 23
., 25
., 26
„ April 2
„ .., 10
„ 17
„ May 22
,, June 15
„ July 21
„ Oct. 3
„ 4/1*
„ Nov. 2
,. 5
„ „ 12
,. 25
.. 29
From
Warren Hastings
William M. Goodlad
Laurence Sulivan
Robert Palk ...
C. Bazett
George Vansittart
Robert Palk, ]un.
Alexander Wynch
Jane Morse
Nicholas Morse
William Jackson
Lieut. Thomas Palk
Chokappa Chetti
Josias Du Pr^ ...
Tom Palk
Warren Hastings
Reynold Adams
Nawab Walajah
Henry Brooke . . .
Nicholas Morse
Robert D. Mvmro
John M. Stone
WiUiam M. Goodlad
Robert Palk . . .
Robert Palk . . .
Reynold Adams
Tom Palk
Ensign John Palk
Chokappa Chetti
William M. Goodlad
Tom Palk
Lieut. Thomas Palk
Robert Palk ...
Chokappa Chetti
Kasturi & Kesava
WiUiam M. Goodlad
Robert Palk . . .
At
Fort St. George
St. Helena
Calcutta . . .
Masulipatam
Fort St. George
Madras
Kondapalli
Port St. George
Madras
Fort St. George
Madras
Port St. George
London
Haldon House
Fort St. George
Samulkota
Fort St. George
Ship Vansittart
Ragapatam
London
Fort St. George
To
Robert Palk
WiUiam M. Goodlad
Robert Palk
William M. Goodlad
Mrs. Goodlad
Robert Palk
John M. Stone,
Robert Palk
&c.
WiUiam M. Goodlad
Robert Palk
.. London
Colonel GUbert Ironside Fort WiUiam
Paragraph of General Letter from Court of Directors
Robert Palk — ••. Nawab Walajah
Henry Vansittart, jun. Madeira Robert Palk
Capt. Thomas Madge .. . EUore
WiUiam M. Goodlad ... Port St. George ...
Henry Vansittart, jun. Cape of Good Hope „
WUliam M. Goodlad ... Fort St. George ...
Maj. Thomas FitzGerald AngeMUe
Capt. James RenneU ... Bengal ... ... „
WiUiam Aldersey . . . Calcutta ... „
Henry Vansittart, jun. At Sea, Indian
Ocean
. . Chilton Lodge, „
Berks.
Dec. 2 Lastitia Ironside
Serial
No.
,. 94
,. 05
.. 06
.. 97
98
09
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
Ixxii
Date.
1771, Dec. 2
.. 17
1772, Jan. 25
„ 29
„ Feb. 2
„ 20
„ 25
., 27
., 28
>, ,. 28
,. 28
„ 29
„ Mar. 20
„ AprU 2
„ 4
., 4
.. 4
„ 13
„ 13
„ May 27
N.D.
N.D.
1772, Aug. 28
„ Sept. 2
.. 7
„ ,,27/Oct.
„ Sep. 30
„ Oct. 2
., 3
.. 10
., 10
., 15
.. 15
„ 15
„ Nov. 10
„ 11
„ 11
.. 11
„ Dec. 1
N.D.
N.D.
1773, Jan. 11
,, N.D.
„ Jan. 28
„ 28
'., ,. 31
„ .. 31
„ Feb. 1
., 1
.. 5
., 10
,. 30
\_8ic\
„ Mar. 1
.. 2
From
Robert Palk ...
Edmund V. Lane
John Crichtou ...
Henry Vansittart, jvm.
Robert Palk ...
Anthony Goodlad
Josias Du Pr6
Reynold Adams
Chokappa Chetti
Tom Palk
.William M. Goodlad .
Henry Vansittart, jun
John M. Stone
Reynold Adams
WiUiam M. Goodlad .
Robert Palk ...
William M. Goodlad .
Colonel Gilbert Ironside
Laurence Sulivan
Henry Vansittart, jun.
Ensign J. Snelling
Warren Hastings
2 William M. Goodlad
John M. Stone
Reynold Adams
William M. Goodlad .
Chokappa Chetti
John M. Stone
Josias Du Pr6 ...
Edward Cotsford
Tom Palk
Warren Hastings
Colonel Gilbert Ironside
Henry Griffiths
Tom Palk
Stephen Sulivan
At
Haldon House
Bombay . . .
Canton
Bengal
Park Place
Port William
Fort St. George
Madras
Park Place
Madras
Port William
Queen Square
Queen Square
Bengal
Jelmur, Ganjam
Cossimbazar
Madras
Port St. George
Madras
Calcutta . . .
Port WiUiam
Calcutta . . .
To
William M. Goodlad
Robert Palk
William M. Goodlad
Robert Palk
Serial
;No.
WiUiam M. Goodlad
Robert Palk
Laurence Sulivan
Robert Palk
Charles Bourchier .
Robert Palk
Robert Palk
Essex Court, ,,
Temple
Memorandum of Reforms effected by W. Hastings
Tom Palk
Anthony Goodlad
James DanieU ...
Chokappa Chetti
Venkataramaiya, &c.
WiUiam Petrie
Nawab Walajah
George Smith ...
Tom Palk
Roger DarvaU
TomPaUi
Henry Vansittart, jun.
Anthony Goodlad
Calcutta . . .
Cuddalore
Port St. George
Madras
Port St. George
Chepauk . . .
Port St. George
Calcutta
Fort Marlborough
Calcutta . . .
Fort WiUiam
Maj. Gen; Lawrence
Robert PaUi:
Ixxiii
Bate.
rrom
At
To
Serial
No.
1773, Mar. 10
Chokappa Chetti
. Port St. George ..
. Robert Palk
.. 204
„ 13
George Smith
• ■
.. 205
„ u
Muttukrishna Mudali
.. 206
.. 22
TomPalk
.. Calcutta
.. 207
., 28
Letter of Attorney from Robert Palk, jun.
208
„ AprH 1
Henry Vansittart, jun.
Calcutta
. Robert Palk
.. 209
.. 3
Warren Hastings
. Port William
.. 210
„ May U
Eleanor Adams
. Tavistock
.. 211
„ July 7/22
Beynold Adams
. Port St. George ..
.. 212
„ Oct. 9
George Vansittart
. Calcutta
. His attorneys
.. 213
., 13
James DanieU
. Fort St. George ..
. Robert Palk
.. 214
., 20
Anthony Goodlad
. Purnea
.. 215
,. 25
Reynold Adams
. Fort St. George . .
'.,
.. 216
„ 29
Edward Cotstord
. Madras
• >>
.. 217
„ „ 29
John d'Fries
. Port St. George ..
.. 218
„ 29
Chokappa Chetti
•
.. 219
„ Nov. 3
Robert Palk, jun.
. Calcutta ...
.. 220
„ 10
Henry Griffiths
.. 221
„ 11
Henry Vansittart, jun.
,. 222
„ 14
Warren Hastings
. Port William
■
. 223
N.D.
Robert Palk
—
. TomPalk
. 224
1774, Jan. 1
George Vansittart
. Calcutta
. Robert Palk
,. 225
„ 15
Colonel Gilbert Ironside The Grove, Port
. 226
WilUam
„ 16
Robert Palk, jun.
. Patna
..
. 227
., 20
Frederick Griffiths
. Calcutta ...
•
. 228
„ Feb. 2
Reynold Adams
. Port St. George . . .
,,
. 229
„ 4
Chokappa Chetti
„
„
. 230
„ 6
John d'Pries
■
. 231
„ 12
Muttukrishna MudaU
„
„
. 232
„ 23
Robert Palk, jun.
. Patna
„
. 233
„ Mar. 11
,,
,, "...
„
. ■234
., 15
Muttukrishna MudaU
Fort St. George . . .
„
. 235
„ 18
Joseph Price
. Calcutta ...
„
. 236
N.D.
Robert Palk
—
Nawab Walajah . .
. 237
1774, AprU 3
Stephen Sulivan
. Paper Buildings,
Temple
Robert Palk
. 238
N.D.
,,
It
. 239
N.D.
"
. Paper Buildings,
Temple
"
. 240
1774, Aug. 1
Statement of Account of Robert Palk with i
the Estate of Henry
241
Vansittart
„ 23
Laiu'ence Sulivan
Queen Square
Robert Palk
. 242
„ Sep. 15
,,
:l " •
I, ■ ■
. 243
„ 21
Robert Palk
. Haldon House
Laurence Sulivan ..
. 244
„ 24
Nawab Walajah
. Chepauk House . . .
Robert Palk
. 245
,. 30
Laurence Sulivan
, Queen Square
,1
. 246
„ Nov. 24
Thomas Short ...
Calcutta
,,
. 247
1775, Feb. 12
Laurence Sulivan
Queen Square
,,
, 248
,. 24
Frederick Griffiths
Camp
„
249
„ July 2
Chokappa Chetti
Port St. George . . .
„
250
„ 4
James Hodges
,,
.,
251
„ 4
John d 'Fries
Madras
„
252
„ 8
George Baker
Fort St. George ...
TomPalk
253
„ Aug. 12
TomPalk
Masuhpatam
George Baker
254
„ Sep. 10
Colonel Robert Gordon
Bombay ...
Robert Palk
255
„ Oct. 7
John d'Pries
Madras
,,
256
„ 10
George Baker ...
Fort St. George . . .
„
257
Ixxiv
Serial
Date.
From
At To
No.
1775, Oct.
10
Ohokappa Chetti
Port St. George ... RobertPalk
.. 258
11 )i
12
Richard Wellaud
Madras Roads ... ,,
.. 259
II l>
13
George Baker ...
Port St. George
.. 260
II
14
Reynold Adams
,, •■■ II
.. 261
M J>
14
Muttukrishna Mudali
,,
.. 262
„ Dec.
14
14
George Baker ...
Chokappa Chetti
.. 263
.. 264
14
John d'Pries ...
Madras
.. 265
1776, Jan.
2
Major James Renuell
Bengal ... ... ,,
.. 266
.. ,.
4
Lieut. J. SnelUng
Sick Qrs. Vizaga- ,,
patam
.. 267
.»
14
Colonel Gilbert Ironside
Calcutta ... ... ,,
.. 268
II n
15
Sir Edward Hughes . .
Bombay ...
.. 269
,, Feb.
2
Chokappa Chetti
Port St. George ...
.. 270
1) n
8
Tom Palk
MasuUpatam
.. 271
II 11
10
George Baker ...
Port St. George ...
.. 272
,1
10
Mary Turing ...
,, • ■• ■ ■ ■ ,,
.. 273
II i>
12
John M. Stone
,, ... ,,
.. 274
n II
12
Nawab Walajah
Chepauk ...
.. 275
.,
12
John d'Pries ...
Madras
.. 276
*
15
George Baker ...
Port St. George ...
.. 277
,,
16.
Muttukrishna Mudali
,,
.. 278
)) It
17
A. Venkata
Madras
.. 279
,, ,,
21
John M. Stone
Port St. George ...
.. 280
II II
23
George Baker ...
II ■ ■ • ' ■ • ,,
.. 281
,, Mar
16
Richard Goodlad
Dinajpur ...
.. 282
n II
21
Robert Palk, jun.
Calcutta
.. 283
II >•
22
Sir Edward Hughes . .
Bombay ...
.. 284
• 1 I)
30
Henry 'Vansittart, jun.
Calcutta ...
.. 285
,, June 11
Daniel Corneille
St. Helena
.. 286
11 )i
20
Nawab Walajah
Chepauk
.. 287
II n
20
Jolm d'Pries ...
Madras ... ... ,,
.. 288
11 It
27
Chokappa Chetti
Port St. George ...
.. 289
„ July
11
Edmund V. Lane
Taunah
.. 290
,. ,,
13
Lieut. J. Snelling
Cliicacole ...
.. 291
„ Aug
16
Lieut. John Yarde
Berhampur
.. 292
,, ,,30/Oct.8 George Baker
Port St. George ...
.. 293
„ Sept
. 6
Richard Welland
Madras Roads ... ,,
.. 294
,, ,,
15
Chokappa Chetti
Fort St. George ...
.. 295
II II
18
Henry Vansittart, jun.
Calcutta ...
.. 296
It II
20
George Smith ...
Fort St. George ...
.. 297
II II
20
Chokappa Chetti
II
.. 298
II i>
21
John d'Pries ...
Madras
.. 299
22
Muttukrishna Mudali
—
.. 300
n II
25
Nawab Walajah
Chepauk
.. 301
II 1'
25
Charles Ployer
Fort St. George ...
.. 302
II '1
26
Sir Edward Hughes . .
Madras ... ... „
.. 303
II II
26
John d'Pries ...
.. 304
,, Oct.
1
Chokappa Chetti
Fort St. George ...
.. 305
..
2
Henry Brooke ...
" ■ • •
.. 306
J) II
6
George Baker ...
II ' • •
.. 307
II 1'
8
Nawab Walajah
Chepauk
.. 308
9
Prince Amir-ul-TJmara
„
.. 309
II .>
10
John d'Pries
Madras
.. 310
14
George Baker
Fort St. George ...
.. 311
II II
15
John d'Pries
Madras ... ... „
.. 312
Ixxv
Date.
From
At
To
Serial
No.
1776, Dec. 17
Edmund V. Lane
. Salsetto
. Robert Palk
.. 313
1777, Jan. 20
Chokappa Chetti
. Fort St. George ..
.. 314
„ Feb. 6
Sir Edward Hughes .
. Madras
.. 315
„ 6
George Baker
. Fort St. George ..
.. 316
6
Tom Palk
. Madras
.. 317
„ Oct. 13
George Baker ...
. Fort St. George . .
.. 318
„ 20
Robert Palk, jim.
—
.. 319
1778, Jan. 29
George Baker ...
. Fort St. George . .
.. 320
,, 30
Muttukrishna Mudali
.. 321
,, Mar. 5
George Baker ...
, „ ,
.. 322
„ u
Muttukrishna Mudali
If
.. 323
,. 22
Colonel Gilbert Ironside Calcutta ...
.. 324
„ Apl. 24
Henry Vansittart, jun.
\ ,, ■ ■ •
.. 325
„ Oct. 11
Thomas Felling
. Madras
.. 326
,. 15
Tom Palk
. Fort St. George . .
.. 327
,. 15
Muttukrishna Mudali
.. 328
„ 17
Edward Cotsford
. Madras
.. 329
,. 19
Chokappa Chetti
. Fort St. George . .
..•330
.. 21
Philip Stowey
. Madras
.. 331
„ 31
Chokappa Chetti
. Fort St. George . .
.. 332
„ Nov. 1
Felling & de Fries
. . Madras
.. 333
1779. Mar. 22
John d'Fries ...
.. Fort St. George ..
.. 334
,, Oct. 15
.Tom Palk
,,
.. 335
ITSO, Jan. 16
John d'Fries ...
.. Madras
.. 336
„ 30
Tom Palk
. . Fort St. George . .
.. 337
„ Feb. 4
John d'Fries ...
. . Madras
.. 338
„ 5
Stephen Sulivan
. Fort St. George . .
.. 339
7
George Baker ...
„
.. 340
„ 10
PeUing & de Fries
. . Madras
.. 341
1783, April 3/May 20
Medical Case of Rober
t Palk, jun., and Dia
py
342
„ Aug. 8
Henry Preston
. Fort St. George . .
. Sir Robert Palk .
.. 343
„ Sep. 10
Dr. Adam Burt
. . Limerick ...
. Messrs. J. & D.
^^'ebst
344
er
X.D.
—
Ma.jor J. McGowan
345
1783, Sep. 12
David Asquith
.. Ship Surprise,
Limeric
Sir Robert Palk
.. 340
,, 16
Dr. Adam Burt
. . Limerick ...
.. 347
„ Oct. 3
,,
,,
.. 348
,. 6
„
,,
.. 349
„ 10
Major John McGowan
London
.. 350
„ 14
Dr. Adam Burt
.. Limerick ...
.. 351
„ 14
Sober Hall
,,
.. 352
„ 15
James Lyons ...
.. 353
„ 16
Certificate by Dr. Ada
m Burt
354
„ 17
,.
,,
355
„ 17
David Asquith
. Limerick ...
. Sir Robert Palk .
.. 358
„ 31
Dr. Adam Burt
. . London
.. 357
„ Nov. 2
Henry McMahon
. . Limerick ...
.. 358
3
Sober Hall
,,
.. 359
., 3
William Douglas
..
.. 360
„ 4
Henry McMahon
• •
.. 361
,, 7
William Douglas
• ■
.. 362
., 8
Sober Hall
,> •" ' •
.. 363
9
William Young
7>
.. 364
,. 11
William Douglas
,,
.. 385
„ 15
Deposition by Dr. Ada
im Burt before the L
ord Maj
ror
388
Ixxvi
Date.
1783, Nov. 30
,, Deo. 16
1784, Jan. 14
„ 15
„ 21
„ Feb. 2
4
Sep.
5
14
10
„ 11
„ 15
.. 18
„ Oct. 8
„ 10
,." ,, 10
„ 12
,, Nov. 20
„ Dec. 4
„ 28
1785, Jan. 25
„ Feb. 2
3
5
7
9
,, Mar. 12
,. 21
,, Apl. 24
,, May 15
„ 16
,, 20
,, June 12
„ July 12
„ Aug. 6
,. Sep. 17
„ Oct. 10
,, Nov. 8
„ Dec. 3
,. 13
,. 24
,, 25
,, 25
5
12
12
16
17
23
4
6
9
11
1786, Jan,
Feb,
From
Dr. Adam Burt
William Young
Sober HaU
George Maunsell
David Asquith
Tom Palk
Henry Preston
David Asquith
Thomas Maunsell —
George Baker ...
Chokappa Chetti
Nawab Walajah
Abraham Welland
Catharine Palk
Tom Palk
George Baker ...
Tom Palk
Henry Vansittart, jun.
Vansittart & Kennaway
George Baker ...
Chokappa Chetti
WilUam Wynch
Major J. Shortt
Sitaram Pandit
Lieut. Gen. Ross Lang
Rawson H. Boddam . . .
Abraham Welland
Capt. Francis S. Ward
Ozias Humphry
Ensign William Preston
Tom Palk
Felling & de Fries
Tom Palk
Thomas Abraham
Chokappa Chetti
George Baker ...
Futwood Smerdon
Lawrence Palk
Abraham Welland
F. D'lvernois ...
Abraham Welland
Tom Palk
Chokappa Chetti
Felling & de Fries
Tom Palk
Walter Palk, jun.
P. D'lvernois
Thomas Abraham
Lawrence Palk
F. D'lvernois ...
Henry Vansittart, jun.
Rev. Samuel Badcock
Serial
At
To
No.
London
Sir Robert Palk . .
. 367
Limerick ...
■■
. 368
. 369
. 370
Ship Surprise,
. 371
Downs
Fort St. George ...
,,
. 372
Camp, Trivatur ...
,,
. 373
Ship Surprise,
..
. 374
Falmouth
DubUn
,,
. 375
. 376
Fort St. George . . .
,,
. 377
Madras
,,
. 378
Chepauk ...
,,
. 379
Calcutta
>i
. 380
Trichinopoly
,.
. 381
. 382
Fort St. George . . .
,,
. 383
Trichinopoly
,.
. 384
. 385
Calcutta
. 386
. 387
Fort St. George . . .
,,
. 388
Madras
„
. 389
. 390
. 391
. 392
Fort St. George . . .
,,
, 393
Bombay ...
,,
. 394
Calcutta ...
,,
, 395
— .
Capt. J. Kennaway
396
Cape of Good Hope
Sir Robert Palk ..,
. 397
Madras
,, . . ,
, 39S
Trichinopoly
)i ■ • <
. 399
Fort St. George . . .
II • • ■
, 400
Trichinopoly
,,
401
Calcutta ...
,, . . ,
. 402
Madras
,,
. 403
Fort St. George . . .
II ■ ■ '
. 404
Ottery St. Mary . . .
Walter Palk, jun. ..,
. 405
Neuchatel
Sir Robert Palk ..,
. 406
Guttaul
,,
407
Neuchatel
„
. 408
Calcutta ...
,.
. 409
Trichinopoly
,,
. 410
Madras
,j . . .
. 411
Fort St. George . . .
II
412
Trichinopoly
Ashburton
„
. 413
. 414
NeuchHtel
,,
, 413
Calcutta ...
„
410
Besangou
1, . . .
417
Neuchatel
„
418
Calcutta
Gen. John Caillaud
419
South Molton
Sir Robert Palk ...
. 420
Ixxvii
Date.
From
At
To
■ Serial
No.
.786, Feb. 13
Lawrence Palk
Neuch^tel
Sir Robert Palk . .
. 421
„ 15
Tom Palk
Trichinopoly
. 422
„ 17
Ayton, Brassey & Co....
Lombard Street . . .
. 423
,, 22
Vansittart & Kenuaway
Calcutta
. 424
.. 25
Thomas Abraham
„
. 425
.. 25
Ayton, Brassey & Co....
Lombard Street . . .
. 426
„ Mar. 2
Lawrence Palk. . .
Neuchatel
. 427
„ 5
,,
,, • ■ •
. 428
„ 9
P. D'lvernois ...
,,
. 429
,,12/16
George Baker
Fort St. George . . .
. 430
„ 15
Tom Palk
Trichinopoly
. 431
„ 18
Palling & de Fries
Fort St. George . . .
. 432
„ 18
Thomas PeUing
Madras
,. 433
„ 24
Thomas Abraham
Calcutta ...
. 434
„ Apl. 10
Lawrence Palk
Constance
. 435
„ 22
P. D'lveruois
Vienna
. 436
„ May 21
Lawrence Palk
,, ... ...
. 437
„ June 3
»,
,, ... ...
. 438
„ 10
F. D'lveruois
Feslau, near Vienna
. 439
.. 26
Lawrence Palk
Dresden ...
. 440
„ 26
PeUing & de Fries
Fort St. George ...
. 441
.. July 2
Tom Palk
Trichinopoly
. 442
„ 4
Rev. J. Bradford
Ideford
. 443
„ 6
Lawrence Palk
Berlin
. 444
„ 8
Tom Palk
Trichinopoly
. 445
„ 10
Lawrence Palk
Berlin
. 446
„ 21
,,
,, ... ...
. 447
„ „ 30
F. D'lvernois
Brunswick
. 448
„ Aug. 1
Rev. Samuel Badcock
West Sandford ...
. 449
2
Thomas PeUing
—
. 450
.,9/11
F. D'lvernois
Pyrmout and
Gottingen
. 451
„ 13
Vansittart & Kennaway
Calcutta ...
. 452
„ 19
Simeon Droz ...
Arlington Street . . .
Gen. John Caillaud
453
„ 21
Lawrence Palk
Wesel
Sir Robert Palk . .
. 454
„ 26
Henry Vansittart, jun.
Calcutta ...
,,
. 455
„ 29
PeUing & de Fries
Port St. George . . .
,,
. 456
,, Sept. 7
Tom Palk
Trichinopoly
,.
. 457
„ 8
Lawrence Palk
The Hague
,,
. 458
„ 18
Thomas Abraham
, Calcutta ...
,,
. 450
„ 30
Chokappa Chetti
Madras
,,
. 460
„ Oct; 14
PelUng and de Fries . . .
Port 81. George ...
,,
. 461
„ ' 19
Rev. Samuel Badcock
.South Molton
It
.. 462
„ Nov. 8
G. Browne
—
II
. 463
„ 12
Thomas AViraham
. Calcutta ...
II
,. 464
„ li
Tom Palk
. Trichinopoly
,,
,. 465
„ 20
Adrian de Pries
. Fort St. George . . .
,,
.. 466
„ Dec. 2
PeUing & de Fries
•
,,
.. 407
,, 19
Ensign WUUam Preston Trichinopoly
IT
.. 408
„ 23
PeUing & de Fries
. Fort St. George . . .
,,
.. 469
1787, Mar. 1
Rev. Samuel Badcock
.South Molton
,,
.. 470
CALENDAR
OF THE
PALK MANUSCRIPTS
IN THE Possession of Mrs. Bannatyne,
OF Haldon, Devon.
[No. 1.]
[Lieut. Colonel] S[tringer] Lawrence to Charles Watson,
EsQR., Rear Admiral of the Red, and Commander in Chief of
all His Majesty's Ships employed in the East Indies.
1755, October 8th. Fort St. George.—" Sir, I beg leave to
present you with an account of my campaigns in India. The
better to make the cause of the war understood I shall begin
with a short account of the first rise of the troubles here ;
the state of affairs when I left India at the end of the year
'50 ; what happened during my absence and after my return
in March '52, imto the end of the year '54, when a cessation of
arms took place between the two nations.
" My narrative. Sir, will, I am afraid, savour more of the
soldier than the historian, but I submit my stile and actions
with all my heart to your inspection. Your good nature^ I
know, will make large allowances, and your judgment in
correcting, at the same time it improves, will be a mark of
your esteem and regard, which I shall at all times think
myself highly honoured with.
" The Mogul Empire is divided into three Departments. I
shall only treat of the one in which we have been concerned :
it is to the southward and called the Deckan. The govern-
ment of this third is appointed by the Mogul himself ; and
by a power delegated from his Prince, he'i' names the Nabobs
to govern the different Subahs'^' in his Principality. The
Deckan has seven Subahships, which are named as in the
margin.'^' The capital of the Province is Aurengebade :
the three last Subahships are comprehended under the name
of the Carnatick, in which we have endeavoured to support
the Nabob Mahomed Allee Cawn.
(1) The ruler of the Deccan under the Mogul.
(2) Provinces.
(3) Marginal note by Lawrence : — " Names of the Subahships in the Deckan ;
Aurengebade, Kandees, Barraud, Berampoore, Golcondah, Ahamad Nagar,
Vizapoor ; the three last comprehended under the name of tin' Carnatick."
Wt. 1161. A
No. 1.] 2
" The Carnatick is part on this side of the river Kitshna^'
to Cape Comorin, and Golconda is on the other side of the river
to Aurengebade : the whole goes under the name of the Deckan.
[Then follows Lawrence's Narrative substantially as printed
by R. O. Cambridge in his Account of the War in India, 1750
to 1760. London, 1761. The principal variations between
the written and printed versions are noted below. Lawrence's
letter terminates thus : — ]
" The day after it [the suspension of arms, proclaimed 11th
October, 1754] was declared I left the army and came down
to the Settlements, not the same man in constitution as when
I left them, after a campaign of two years and seven months,
and never absent from the feild but six weeks in the whole
time.
" A truce for a year and a half, or till we could receive
answers from Europe, succeeded the cessation. Since that
time our troops have some times been employed in settling
the country and assisting the Nabob to collect his revenues.
" I have now gone through my narrative, in which my
constant endeavour has been to give a true description of
our military transactions for the amusement and perusal
only of a few particular friends, who, I hope, will make allow-
ances for the want of a proper stile and correctness. If the
subject is clear and easily understood, the end proposed is
fully answered.
" I am, with the greatest esteem, Sir, your most obedient
humble servant,
" S. Lawrence."
[Autograph, 210pp., 4to., and an Appendix of Wpp. des-
criptive of the Island of Srirangam and its temples ; the whole
bound in paper covers in book form.]
[Besides making verbal alterations, Cambridge omits several
paragraphs and notes which occur in Lawrence's MS. narrative.
The principal omissions are quoted below, and the positions
of the lacunae in the printed version are indicated. Cambridge's
Appendix to the narrative is not found in the MS. version.]
MS. p. 4. Marginal note {Camb. p.2). " The Marattoes are
Gentous, esteemed the best soldiers, except the Rashboot
cast, in India. The Princes of the Indostan hire them, as
European Powers do the Swiss. But now and then indeed
they march without being desired, raise contributions and
return to their own country. They are governed by a King,
whom they stile the Nana or Shaw Rajah :<2' the capital of
his kingdom is called Sattarah, about 800 miles north west
from Madrass."
(1) Footnote by Lawrence : — " Tlie rise and progress of this River may be
seen in a map lately published, as well as the Country I am treating of."
(2) Sahu Raja, tHular ruler of the Marnthas, was a grandson of Sivaji.
3 [No. 1.
MS. p. 5. Marginal note {Camb. p. 2). " The Camatick
about three centuries ago was all under the Gentou govern-
ment. The King resided at Vizepoor ;(i' the River Ganges <2>
divided their dominions from the Mogul's. Royallow was
the first Gentou king that quarrelled with the Moors, who
crossed the river, and after several turns of fortune they got
some footing in the Carnatick ; which still increased under
different Moguls imtil the time of Aurengzeb, who made all
the Carnatick tributary to the Mogul. It was his great grand
father Huckenbarf^' that began the conquest. Nabobs were
then first sent to govern the country, but notwithstanding,
the Gentou form of government still remained in several
places, and does now. The Marattoes, being all Gentous, are
a great ballance against the incroaching power of the Moors.
Such was the state of Tritchinopoly when Chunda took and
changed its form of government."
MS, p. 64 {Camb. p. 28). " Thus Chunda made his exit and
paid the just price of his rebellion. In private life he is said
to have been a man of great benevolence, humanity and
generosity. And with regard to his publick character|[; in
this mighty ill-ruled empire custom makes a rebell, or any
man that sets up for himself only, considered as he succeeds ;
according to his success he is a great man, the idea of "good not
being necessarily annexed. Their ambition is generally
better pleased with the former. If he fails, he is only reckoned
unlucky. The rule of right is almost here defaced ; an
attempt may be deemed unlawfuU, but possession justifies
the act, and makes it good and valid. Chunda thought him-
self born to rule, and as nature had given him parts, he was
willing to make use of them."
MS. p. 131 (Camb. p. 48). " On advice received from Mr.
Palk we continued our march near the Capital'*' at the King's
request and promise of a speedy junction ; so well had Mr.
Palk managed for our interest. Indeed I could expect nothing
less from his unwearied attention to remove all difficulties,
which before prevented the assistance we so much wanted ;
and this is not the only good turn for which we are indebted
to this gentleman."
MS. p. 154 (Camb. p. 55). " The King i^' was hesitating, and
very Uttle was wanting to turn the scale against us. As my
advice was not always properly attended to, it was sometimes
given in vain. I wrote to Mr. Palk, who was willing to come
on the least request of the Governour. Again I renewed my
request, begging at last, if they would not spare him, to send
me some body else of character and judgment, or the alliance
(1) An error for Vijayanagar, the capital of the ancient Hindu Itingdora of the
same name.
(2) The Godavari (Vriddha-Ganga) .
(3) Akbar.
W Tanjore.
(5) The King of Tanjore.
No. 1.] 4
of the King of Tanjore was inevitably lost. After much delay
they sent a gentleman, <i) one of the St. David's Council, a
good man, but as unfit a person for the 'business as they could
pick out ; and had it not been for two lucky accidents in our
favour, nothing would have prevented the King of Tanjore
from signing a neutrality. One of them was the French mis-
carrying in their attempt on Trichenopoly ; the other the
Marattos being obhged to retire from the Tanjore country
after having suffered considerably in their expedition, and
leaving behind them 1,000 horse and many officers prisoners."
MS. J9.159 (Camb. p. 56). [The name of the gallant leader
of the escalading party, omitted by Cambridge, was " Valgra."]
MS. p. 178 (Camb. p. 62). [According to the MS., the disaster
to the British detachment was due to the commanding officer
" knowing but little of his business." Cambridge attributes
it to " misconduct."]
MS. p. 180 {Camb. p. 63). " I acquainted the Presidency
with the misfortune : they could now find men quick enough
to send a reinforcement when they were frightened. They
sent therefore 180 men immediately to Deve Cotah, and Mr.
Palk at last to Tanjore to try once more his influence at that
Court. His coming, indeed, would have been sooner, but on
application to Mr. Duplex for a passport, he refused to grant
any unless he gave his word that his journey should not be
beyond St. David ; so that it took him 15 days to go by sea."
MS. p. 190 (Camb. p. 66). " 111 as I was, I had myself carried
out to the top of one of the gateways of the Fort ; <^' but too
weak long to bear the anxiety and uneasiness I was in when
I saw our ticklish situation. I knew indeed our men were
brave, but such odds were too much."
MS. Appendix p. 5 {Camb. p. 19). " We have had many
ridiculous stories about the origin of these Pagodas,'^' but the
account most to be depended on is that they were built by
an order of the great Gentou King called Kishtna Royallou,
to whom all the rest of the Princes of the Carnatick were
tributary : you will see mention made of him in the beginning
of these sheets. The Moors in his reign first began the con-
quest of the Carnatick. By his orders was Seringam built
at the expence of four tributary Princes (who each were to
erect the side opposite to the countries they governed), the
east by the King of Tanjour, the north by the King of Gingee,
the west by the King of Maisure, and the south by the King
of Trichenopoly."
(1) Thomas Cooke, jun., a civil servant ot 1740, who was appointed in 1747 a
Councillor at the Presidency of Fort St. David.
(2) The Fort nf Trichinopoly.
(•*' The Srirangam temples.
[No. 2]
John Pye (i) to
[Endorsed in Palk's hand.] "Bombay. Mr. Pye. 5th
Feb., 1758. Reed. 17th April."
1758, February 5th. Bombay.—" My dear Friend, I have
the pleasure to acquaint you of our arrival here the 23rd
of last month, all well, and that in a day or two we embark on
board the Swallow for Gombaroon, (2) from whence we go in
the Success to Bassorah ; but as I have very httle time to
spare now, will proceed to commune with you on business.
" Your Respondentia Bond'^' on Capt. James I leave with
Capt. Hough to be received the 13th instant, being then due.
Your chest containing by your instructions ten thousand
sonnauts,<*> but by ocular demonstration only nine thousand
nine hundred and ninety five, I have sold by Capt. Hough's
advice for nine thousand five hundred and ninety five Bombay
rupees. I have settled your account with Hough & Spencer
to the 31st January last, and inclose you a copy of it, by which
you will see the ballance due to you is thirteen thousand seven
hundred sixty three rupees and fifty reas,'^) and that your
Gheria<^) prize money and Doidge'sC' Respondentia on the
Liveley is included in it. . . . The Governor and Council will
give Hough bills for all the money we want, but not time enough
for me to take one with me ; but I shall leave instructions
with him to send two of your bills home by two of the European
ships which depart in about a month. Your bills will be made
payable to Charles Brett. (^i As soon as I get home I will see
Brett, and conmiune with him on your affairs. No account
can be given of the 400 rupees paid to Smith, late supra cargoe
of the Grampus.
" The china of Japan and the third of a leager of arrack""
given you in former days by Henry Doidge, Esq., are safely
deposed in a godown'!"' in the Tank House under the charge
of George England. Observe your jars are not separated from
the rest ; either you or King of the Cumberland, Doidge says,
must carry the whole home for him, and then yours are to be
(1) John Pye was one of four Navy Agents in July, 1757. (Hill's Cat. Ornie MSS.
X.I (25) ).
(2) Gombaroon, Gombroon or Bandar Abbas in the Persian Gulf, where the East
India Company had a factory.
(3J Respondentia Bond, a bond on the security of a ship's cargo.
(4) SonnaiUs, from Ar. sanwdt, pi. of san, year; Rupees which had deteriorated
in value after three years' currency.
(5) Beas, small money of account used in Bombay ; the Rupee contained 400
reas. In Bombay accounts were kept in rupees, quarters and reas.
(8) Gheriah or Vijayadrug, the stronghold of the pirate Angria on the coast
south of Bombay, was attacked and destroyed by Admiral Watson and Colonel
Clive in February, 1756.
(7) Henry Doidge, one of the four Navy Agents.
(8) Charles Brett, a friend of Palk in England.
(9) Arrack, a fermented liquor obtained from the palm.
(10) Godown, a store, from Tel. gidangi through Malay gadong, u, storeroom.
No, 2] 6
rendered unto you. The cask of arrack has the noble nanae
of Martin wrote upon the head with chalk.
" I am sorry to tell you, in regard to your hopes of Doidge's
drawing on you for forty thousand rupees, that Captain
Hough having lain out for our and Mr. Steevens'd' Squadron
more money than was left here, there is no such thing as any
prize money to be got ; so nothing can be done in that affair.
" For the six dozen of claret we had of you at Bengal, vide
the following scheme —
The 9995 Sonnauts brought here produced 9,595
Your half of James's bond, principal and
premium . . . . . . • • • • 10,800
Hough and Spencer's ballance . . . . 13,763 0 50
6 dozen of claret at 48 per dozen . . . . 288
Bombay Rupees 34,446 0 50
" Thirty four thousand four hundred and forty six rupees
at two shillings and five pence the rupee I humbly apprehend
amounts to pounds sterling 4,162 4 6, which you are morally
certain of getting home this year ; so as it can't be better,
why you must e'en be content 'tis well as it is —
Si fortuna vestra te tormento
Let sperato te contento.
" Ives'2' and Doidge send their best wishes. Mr. Shannon
deserted us at Cochin, and one Mackintosh is come in his room.
Almsi^' goes with us, as does young Pigot.'*' I wrote to you
from Anjango.
" By advices overland the present Lords of the Admiralty
are Anson, Boscawen, West, Hay, Eliott, Hunter and Forbes.
Lord Holdernesse and Mr. Pitt Secretarys of State. - Lord
Temple has the Privy Seal, and Councellor Henley is knighted
and made Lord Keeper of the Great Seal. Of 34 transports
French bound to America we have taken 32, and of 23 Martinico
and Domingo ships 17 have fallen into the hands of the English.
The Duke<^' has been beat in Germany and the city of Hanover
is taken. The Prince of Hesse has lost all his dominions. Mr.
Osborne'^* has 16 sail of the line and Mr. Saunders'^' 14 in
the Meditteranean. Fourteen capital ships and 20,000 troops
were on the point of sailing from England about July last
(1) Commodore Charles Steevens, R.N.
(2) Surgeon Edward Ives, who travelled from Basra to Aleppo in 1758-59.
(3) Lieutenant Alms, R.N., lately commander of the Hardivicke, Indianian,
was an old friend of Dr. Ives. As Captain he commanded the squadron of three
ships which brought General Medows's force to India in 1782.
(*) Dr. Pigot, late surgeon of «■ bomb-vessel.
(5) The Duke of Cumberland, who was defeated at Hastenbeck and forced to
sign the convenlinn of Kloster-Zeven.
(6) Admiral Henry Osborne was Commander-in-Chief in the Mediterranean
early in 1757.
(7) Admiral Sir Charles Saunders relieved Osborne in May 1757.
7 [No. 2
under Mr. Hawke and General MordauntiD on a secret
expedition.
" The Chesterfeild, Portfeild and Edgcote, Indiamen, arrived
at Limerick in June last. The Syren, sloop, Dick King, arrived
in England the beginning of June, by whom the Company
knew of the capture and recapture of Calcutta. The Experiment,
man of war, engaged and took a French privateer of 36 guns
and 400 men. Mr. Fox is Paymaster of the Forces. The Duke
of Newcastle at the head of the Treasury, and I think Mr.
Legge- is Chancellor of the Exchequer.
" Adieu, and believe me with all sincerity your faithfull
friend, &c.
"John Pye."
" Doidge says 'tis doubtfull whether he shall write to you
or no. His head achs ; he has a great deal to do. To be sure
we have led fine lives since we have been here. Pemble is a
fine fellow at 3 in the morning, and laughs heartily at the story
of Cousin Swinney.
" Pray give my best wishes to Capt. Smith."
[Holograph, 2f pp., flscp.]
[No. 3.]
Will[iam] Fergusson(2) to Robert Palk, Esqr.,
at Mrs. Ray's in Tavistock Row, Covent Garden.
1760, November 10th. Ayr. — " I am favoured to-day with
your letter of the 4th, and shall write to the two gentlemen in
the north concerning the subject of your letter. They are
not at all punctual in their answers ; for though I wrote them
repeatedly of the necessity of returning an answer to the
Gruff ees<3' at Fort St. George, and to Mr. Smith'** at Canton,
and transmitted them the letters and accounts you sent me,
desiring after perusal they would be pleased to send me back
the same, or copys of them ; and that they would either write
what answer they thought proper or leave it to me to do
it, yet I have not received any answer from them. . . .
" Since it appears inconvenient that Miss Munro'^' should
go in the same ship with you, I shall agree to her going with
Capt. Glover or with any other you shall approve, since there
are other ladys going out with her in the same ship.
(1) Admiral Edward Hawke and General Sir John Mordaunt co-operated in the
expedition to Rochefort in 1757. The copy of Lawrence's Narrative which is now
in the British Museum was addressed to Mordaunt.
(2) William Pergusson, " Druggist and Chymist in London " and " the
Reverend Mr. Robert Palk of Port St. George " were two of five Executors of the
will of Dr. Andrew Munro, who died at Madras on the 26th October, 1757. A
copy of the will, formerly among the Palk papers, is not now found. Its substance
is given in Indian Records Series, Vestiges of Old Madras, vol.11., pp. 458, 459.
(3) Qrwffees, consignees of gru^ goods, i.e., any bulky articles of merclfandize :
from Dutch grof, coarse.
(*) George Smith, then at Canton and afterwards a free merchant at Madras,
was a nephew of Mrs. Munro.
(5) Katherine Munro, elder daughter of Dr. Munro.
No. 8] 8
"As to what stocks it may be best to lay out the money in
belonging to our Gruff, f^' I cannot determine. Only I am
afraid that trusting to the new supplys will be attended with
delay and other inconveniences, especially as none of us are
likely to be in London ; and therefore I should prefer either
South Sea or Bank Annuitys, which always keep pace with
the other Stocks, and are not liable to the same uncertaintys
as the new supplys. When I recieve Mr. Munro'^' and Mr.
Robertson's'^' answers, you shall be acquainted with them.
" Will Fergusson."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4to. Wax seal.]
[No. 4.]
" Order for Restitution in the East Indies."
Duplicate.
1763, March 16th. Court at St. James. — " To our Trusty
and Welbeloved Major General Stringer Lawrence,
Brigadier General William Draper,'*' Colonel Eyre
Coote,'^' or to the Officer Commanding any Part of Our Land
Forces in the East Indies, or to the Commanding Officer in
any Islands or Places which shall have been taken possession
of by Our Army.
" George R.
" Trusty and Welbeloved, We Greet you well. Whereas
a Definitive Treaty of Peace has been signed at Paris, on the
Tenth Day of February last, by Our Minister Plenipotentiary
and Those of Our Good Brothers The Most Christian King'^' and
The Catholick King,'^' to which The Minister Plenipotentiary
of Our Good Brother The Most Faithful King'S) acceded on
the same Day ; And Whereas It is stipulated by the Eleventh
Article of the said Treaty that Great Britain shall restore to
France, in the Condition they are now in, the different Factories
which that Crown possessed, as well on the Coast of Coromandel
and Orixa as on that of Malabar, as also in Bengal, at the
Beginning of the year 1749 ; And that His Most Christian
(1) Consignment o( gruff goods.
(2) John Munro, of Cullcarn, late of Bombay, one of the Executors.
(3) The Rev. Andrew Robertson, of Kiltcaru, Ross-shire, one of the Executors.
(*) Sir William Draper, K.B., Fellow of King's College, Cambridge, entered the
British Army in 1744, raised the 79th Regiment and commanded it at the siege of
Port St. George in 1758-59. ^\ ith Admiral Cornish he led the Manila Expedition
of 1762. He served later as Lieut-governor of Minorca.
(5) Sir Byre Coote, K.B., served in the Highland rising of 1745, came to India
in 1754, accompanied Clive to Bengal, and as Major was present at Plassey. In
1759, during Lawrence's absence. Colonel Coote commanded the Madras army,
defeating Lally at Wandewash in January, 1760, and reducing Poudicherry a
year later. In July, 1770, he arrived at Madras from home as Commander-in-Chief
in India, but resigned almost immediately m consequence of a dispute with the
local Government. In 1778 he again came to India as Commander-in-Chief with
the rank of Lieut.-General, and in 1780 left Calcutta for Madras to engage Haidar
Ali, whBm he defeated at Porto Novo in 1781. Coote died at Port St. George
in 1783.
(6) Louis Ji.V. of Prance.
(7) Charles III. of Spain.
(8) Joseph I. of Portugal.
9 [No. 4
Majesty shall restore, on His Side, all that He may have con-
quered from Great Britain, in the East Indies, during the present
War ; And will expressly cause Nattal and Tapanoully in the
Island of Sumatra to be restored ; And Whereas it is stipulated
in the Twenty Third Article of the same Treaty that all the
Countries and Territories which may have been Conquered, in
whatever Part of the World, by the Arms of Us and of the Most
Faithful King, as well as by those of the Most Christian and
Catholick Kings, which are not mcluded in the present Treaty
either under the Title of Cessions or under the Title of
Restitutions, shall be restored without Difficulty and without
requiring any Compensation ; And It being further stipulated
in the Twenty Fourth Article of the said Definitive Treaty
that the Factories in the East Indies shall be restored Six
Months after the Exchange of the Ratifications of the present
Treaty, or sooner if it can be done. Which Ratifications were
exchanged on the 10th of this Instant March ; Our Will and
Pleasure is that You do, pursuant to the Stipulations above
recited, deliver or cause to be delivered to such Commissary
or Commissaries as shall be named and authorized on the
Part of our Said Good Brother The Most Christian King to
receive the same, any of the Factories under Your Command
which are to be restored to France in the Condition they are
now in, agreably to the Stipulations of the Eleventh and Twenty
Fourth Articles of the Definitive Treaty abovementioned, and
also that You do deliver or cause to be delivered to the Commis-
sary or Commissaries duely authorized to receive the same any
Countries or Territories which may be to be restored to France
or Spain in Consequence of the Twenty Third Article of the
said Treaty ; And it is Our further Will and Pleasure that you
should take the necessary Measures with the French Com-
missaries that Nattal and Tapanoully in the Island of Sumatra,
and all that France may have conquered from Great Britain
in the East Indies during the present War, be restored agreably
to the Stipulations of the said Eleventh Article of the Definitive
Treaty, as well as with the French and Spanish Commissaries
for the Restitution of any other Conquests which may have
been made upon Our Establishments in the East Indies by
the Arms of the Most Christian and Catholick Kings, and which
are to be restored in Consequence of the Twenty Third Article
of the said Definitive Treaty ; And that the same be restored
at the same Time that Restitution is made of any Conquests
which have been made by any of Our Forces under Your
Command upon the French or Spanish Establishments. And
for so doing this shall be Your Warrant. Given at Our Court
at St. James's the Sixteenth Day of March, 1763, in the Third
Year of our Reign.
" By His Majesty's Command, " Egremont."(1)
[Autograph, 4f pp., flscp. Paper seal of George II.]
(1) Lord Bgremont, a Secretary in Bute's ministry of 1762.
10
[No. 5.]
Brother Salvator a Sanctis D'fon[se]ca to Governor Palk,
Madras.
1765, Sept. 27th. San Thome. d'— Most illustrious and
invincible Governor, Lord Palk,
With the greatest respect I throw myself at your Lordship's
feet and approach, in the only possible way by means of this
letter, to kiss your hand and enquire after your health. If
that be good, I have no doubt that your Lordship will be crowned
with yet higher honours due to the gifts and virtues which
you possess ; for, as I have always heard, all men acknowledge
your piety, power and greatness.
When I arrived on this coast, I went to your Lordship's
residence on six occasions to deliver a letter of recommendation
from Dom Loppo ; but being unable to obtain speech with you,
I gave the letter to M. de Landreset, the senior officer of the
Portuguese forces at Goa, that he might deliver it by other
hands.
For your Lordship's satisfaction I will now be brief. I was
sent out as the head of the Missions of the Spiritual Province
of Portugal in the kingdoms of Jamseylon,'^) Achem'^' and
Queda.**' I accordingly remained on your coast to supervise
necessaries coming from Portugal and Goa, so that the mission-
aries in the said kingdoms might carry on their appointed
work.
Being myself quite worn out by persistent sickness, and being
at present without means of subsistence, I suffer much. Like
a lonely sojourner in Jerusalem I find myself in this place,
where the power and honour of my kinsmen in Portugal are of
no avail by reason of distance and my vow of poverty — a vow
I find difficulty in observing in this country. Hearken there-
fore, my lord, to the counsel of Christ and the Apostle St. Paul,
who says. It is more blessed to give than to receive.
In fine, by the love of Christ, and for the honour and
salvation of your soul, I humbly beseech your Lordship to
bestow alms on me according to the measure of your greatness
and charity. And I will ever pray to the utmost of my power
for your illustrious house, that God will guard you and deliver
you from your enemies for many years to come, so that you may
(1) San Thomi5 was originally a Portuguese -fortified settlement dating from
about 1522, and the seat of a bishopric from 1606. Captured by the King of
Golconda in 1662, it was taken by the French ten years later. In 1674, after a
protracted siege by Golconda aided by the Dutch, it capitulated, and the fortifica-
tions were demolished. In 1687 the place was resettled by the Portuguese under
the native Government, and in 1710 it became British territory by a grant from
Nawab Muhammad Ah. San Thom(5 is situated oh the coast three miles south of
Port 8t. George. It possesses a cathedral and several churches. The cathedral
contains the shrine of St. Thomas.
(2) Jamseylon or Junkseylon (Ujung Salang), an island off the west coast of
the Malay Peninsula.
(3) Achem (Achin) in Sumatra.
(*) Queda (Kedah) in the Malay Peninsula, near Penang.
11 [No. 5
attain to immortal glory. Amen. God knows with what
shame I expose my necessities to you. But forgive me, my
Lord.
Your most humble servant- and true well-wisher with all my
heart ; now and always, and at all times and in every place
I will remember you as your petitioner,
Frater Magister Salvator a Sanctis D'Fonc^-
San Thome, at the hospice of St. Ritta.'i'
27th September, 1765.
[Latin. Holograph, 3 pp.,flscp. The outer cover has a wax
seal displaying a full length figure with aureole, and two
acolj^es below. The seal is inscribed sdarraed. The cover
is addressed thus : — ]
" lUustrissimo Gobernatori de Madrasta Domino Palco, Deus
cum custodiat ad multos annos in Madrasta.
" De Sancto Thoma."
[No. 6.]
[Nawab Walajah'^)] to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.,
Governor.
[Endorsed in Palk's hand] " Nabob's Letters to the King and
Company per Pacific, 3rd April, 1766."
1766, April 3rd. — " Enclosed I send you a letter to the
Company enclosing one for his Majesty, which I desire may
be translated into English, and the copies sent to me that
they may accompany the original and be clearly understood.
" I know you will highly approve of my doing this justice
to General Lawrence, of whose glorious actions you have so
often been an eye witness. Be pleased also to repeat my
attachment to the Company and my entire dependance, and
above all I desire that what I have said concerning the General
may be strongly recommended to the Company."
[J p., demy.]
[Enclosure No. l.J
" To the Honble. The Chairman and Gentlemen of the
Direction of the East India Company.
" The many and great obligations I am under to General
Lawrence induce me to request you will be pleased to present
the inclosed letter to his Majesty, whom God preserve. I
send a copy for your perusal. You are too well acquainted
with General Lawrence's eminent services to need a particular
explanation. I have therefore only further to request that
he may receive from you annually on my account on the 1st
of January Pagodas,'^' which shall be repaid here on that
day to your Governor and Council ; and I desire you will
(1) The Church of St. Bita, standing at the south end of the High Street of San
Thom^, was completed in 1740.
(2) Tlie title Walajah was coiiferred by the Mogul in 1765 on Nawab Muhammad
Ali of Arcot and the Carnatic.
(3) The annuity granted was Pags. 3,750, equivalent to about £1,500.
No. 6] 12
prevail on him to accept this from me as a gratefull acknow-
ledgment to my great benefactor. By his Majesty's favor,
your powerfull assistance and his signal successes, peace and
plenty have been happily restored to my country. It is
therefore equitable that he should reap a part of the fruits of
his own labor. He is grown old with toil, but his glorious
actions will never dye.
" By means of Lord Clive the Mogul Patcha has conferred
on me great honors and made my Government independent
of the Deckan, chiefly out of regard to my attachment to
the Company. Thus under your favor and protection my
Government is firmly established, and I am free from all manner
of apprehension. May your prosperity and your fame ever
increase.
" What can I say more ?"
[1 p., demy.]
[Enclosure No. 2.]
To His Most Excellent Majesty George the Srd, &c., &c.
" I had the honor of addressing your Majesty by Admiral
Cornish'^) and Colonel Monson,'^' and now the departure of
General Lawrence, a servant of your Majesty as well as of the
Company, induces me again to express my gratitude for the
very great assistance I have on every occasion received from
the unwearied vigilance and distinguished abilities of this
excellent officer, whose sword has been often my only protector
in the day of battle ; who for years together kept the field
against a numerous ennemy, and by his courage and conduct
surmounted every difficulty ; who comforted me continually
in my distress, and with a spirit and perseverance peculiar
to himself was almost the only man in Indostan that never
dispaired of my cause. No doubt Your Majesty is well
acquainted with his important services, disinterested character
and extraordinary merit, which are not to be described within
the compass of a letter, but which I and my family above all
others are bound to acknowledge. May your Majesty never
want such an Officer to command your Armies. I have desired
the Company to represent my firm reliance on your Majesty's
protection, and to present this letter, intended to express my
deep sense of your royal favor in giving me such assistance
as I have found in General Lawrence. May your Majesty's
reign be long and happy.
" What can I say more ? "
[1 p., demy.]
(1) Admiral .Samuel Cornish i-einforced Steevens at the siege of Pondicherry in
17U1, and in the following year, in conjunction with General Draper, conducted
the expedition against Manila.
(2) Colonel the Hon. George Mousou entered the army in 1750, came to India
with Draper's Regiment and served at Wandewash and Pondicherry in 1760,
Manila in 1762 and Madura in 1763. Eleven years later he came again to India
as a member of the Supreme Council of Bengal, and united with Clavering and
Francis against Hastings until his death in 1776.
13
[No. 7.]
Memorandum of miles run by the Ship Pacific {unsigned).
1766, October 18th. — " The number of miles run per month
by the Ship Pacific,^^'> having sailed from Madrass the 4th April,
1766, and arrived at the Cove of Cork the 18th day of October.
From the 4th of April to the 30th . . Miles 1,183
2,167
In May
In June
In July
In August . .
In September
In October to the 18th
Total
2,836
2,265
2,658
2,308
1,248
14,665 ■
[No. 8.]
The Secretary to the Court of Directors to Major General
Stringer Lawrence.
1766, December 4th. East India House. — " It is with great
pleasure I inform you that the Court of Directors yesterday
came to an unanimous resolution that the annuity of five
hundred pounds setled upon you for life, which ceased by
your resignation thereof on returning to your station as
Commander in Chief of the Company's forces in the East
Indies in 1761, is to be continued from the time of your
leaving Fort Saint George for England, when your allowances
for the abovementioned station ceased. Most sincerely
wishing the Bath may have the desired effect, I remain, Sir,
your most obedient humble servant, Robt. James, Secretary."
[Autograph, l\p., 4to.]
[No. 9.]
Henry Moore to the Honorable Robert Palk, Esqr.
1766, December 18th, Ship Osterley, near Anjengo. —
" As the Osterl[e]y is now standing into Anjengo road, I write
you half a dozen lines from on board her to advise you of our
arrival thus far. I hope they will salute you and Mrs. Palk in
good health. Mr. Vansittart'^' was well in Burlington street
the middle of March last. Should the Anson and Devonshire
be arrived with you, you must have heard of him much later.
When we were at Cadiz we heard of the arrival of the Admiral
Steevens at Lisbon in ninety days from Bengal : she arrived
there about the middle of April. We sailed from Cales [Cadiz]
the 3rd of May, but_the repairs we got there proving ineffectual,
we were obliged to put in to Saint Salvador upon the coast of
(1) The Pacific carried the Nawab's letters to the King and Company. Vide
No. 6.
(2) Henry Vansittart, late Governor of Bengal. Vide p. 30, note 3.
No. 9] 14
Brazil, where we arrived under the 13th of June with a leak of
five feet an hour. I need not to Mr. Palk paint our distresses.
Heaving down, and the giving our crazy ship a new bottom
detained us at that place untill the 20th of September. We
have since continued quite tight, and are all very healthy, nor
has any accident taken place during the remainder of the
voyage except the carrying away topmasts and other trifies
of that nature. Thanks to Providence, our voyage now draws
near a conclusion. When I embarque on another outward
bound one I hope it will use me worse than this has done. I
beg my respects to Mrs. Palk. . . .
" Henry Moore."
[Holograph, 2J pp., 4to.J
[No. 10.]
Rob[er]t Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.'^'
[Endorsed] " Letter from Mr. Palk, 25th January, 1767,
dated on board the Lord Camden, Nathaniel Smith, in Madras
Road on the day he embarked for Europe."
1767, January 25th. On board the Lord Camden, Madras
Road — " Dear Goodlad, I am much obliged to Mr. Bourchier
and you for conveying the intelligence of Mr. Powney's'^* safety.
At any rate he is likely to make a better voyage than I had
reason to expect.
" As I think I know the goodness of your heart fuUwell,
I could never doubt of the sincerity of its sentiments. I freely
acknowledge that I have often felt a most particular satis-
faction in your success and well known improvement, and
those sentiments of honor and uprightness which I know will
never fail to be your constant companions ; and you can have
none that you ought to be fonder of. There is no good fortune
that can possibly happen to its greatest favorites that I do not
most heartily wish you, and it will at all times give me pleasure
to hear from you, or to be instrumental in promoting it.
" Mrs. Palk sends her most affectionate wishes, and I am,
dear Goodlad, unalterably your sincere friend,
"RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4to.J
[No. 11.]
[Ensign] J. Carpenter to [Robert Palk].
[Endorsed in Palk's hand] " Mr. Carpenter, 25th January,
1767."
1767, January 25th. Tritchinopoly. — " Give me leave to
assure you that it is not in my power to express the sense
(1) AN'illiam Martin Goodlad, a Madras civil servant of 1761, was Secretary in
the Civil Department. He was a proUgd of Palk, who was a friend of the Goodlad
family.
(2) William Powney had arrived in the Sican at Tellicherry from Malacca. He
was a younger son of Capt. John Powney, a seafaring man of Madras, who died
in 1740.
15 [No. 11
I have of the very kind letter you honoured me with, or
how much I am obliged to you for the favours you have
shewn me. I most gratefully thank you, Sir, for your
intentions to join my friends at home with your endeavours
to recover the rank my former commission gives me. Mr.
Webber was the gentleman that gott me first appointed. Last
year my friends sollicited and procured me the interest of
Mr. Cruttendon and Mr. Harrison, both of which gentlemen
expressed the greatest desire of serving me, and, I am perswaded,
did every thing in their power then towards it. They likewise
applied. Sir, to Mr. Barrington, Mr. Savage, Mr. Scrafton and
Mr. Wheeler,'^' and engaged those gentlemen's interest in
my behalf. As my present situation deprives me of the hopes
of acquiring any thing farther than a maintenance suitable to
the character we are in a great measure obligated to support
at the expence of every thing valuable to us, and subjects
me to such disagreeable inconveniences as to deprive me of
serving me [sic] with that chearfulness necessary to our duty,
I have wrote my friends that my whole welfare depends on
the success of their endeavours in the strongest manner I were
able ; but as you. Sir, know the very great difference between
my present situation and that of those gentlemen who were
appointed Lieutenants at the same time, or even those gentle-
men who were then made Ensigns, notwithstanding they arrived
in the country but a few months before me, I flatter myself,
Sir, that it will be in your power to get me restored to the rank
I am conscious to myself of never having deserved to be de-
prived of, and which I should be happy to shew myself not
unworthy of possessing. This is the only hope I have. Sir,
of ever seeing again my friends with pleasure or persuing with
satisfaction the service I am engaged in. Most sincerely
wishing you and family health and every happiness, I am. Sir,
your ever obliged and obedient humble servant,
" J. Carpenter."
[Holograph, Ij p., 4 to. J
[No. 12.]
George Vansittart'^) to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr. Duplicate.
1767, February 15th. Madras. — " Dear Palk, Two or
three days after your departure I received letters from
Russell<3) and Campbell'*' congratulating me on my being
(1) With the exception of William Webber, who was a Director from 1762 to
1765, the other patrons named, viz., Edward Holden Cruttenden, John Harrison,
Pitzwilliam Barrington, Henry Savage, Luke Scrafton and Edward \\'heler, were
Directors between 1765 and 1767.
(2) George Vansittart, Bengal civil service, younger brother of Henry Vansittart.
(3' Claud Russell, 6th Member of the Bengal Council. Russell entered tlie
Madras civil sei-vice in 1752, and was transferred to Bengal in 1766. In 1775 he
returned to Madras as a member of Lord Pigot's Council, and married one of the
Governor's daughters.
(*) Alexander Campbell, a Bengal civil servant of 1763, was 11th member of
Council at Calcutta in 1767.
No. 12] 16
appointed Resident at Midnapoor, and Campbell informs
me that for this step I am entirely indebted to Lord Clive,
who himself proposed it to the Board without solicitation,
or even my name being mentioned to him. This is a favour
which I little expected from his Lordship ; my obligation to
him is therefore the greater, and I think that I may now with
much propriety make him the aclcnowledgement which you
proposed by way of advance towards a reconciliation. You
know I am sensible that in some respects I have acted wrong ;
I have no objection therefore to the making of such an acknow-
ledgement on a motive of gratitude for the favour he has
conferred on me, although, as there have been causes of com-
plaint on both sides, I could not prevail on myself to do it
through fear of his power. Inclosed is a letter to him on the
subject. Consult with Harry'i) concerning it, and if you and
he approve it, let it be delivered. We shall set out in a day or
two for Bengal. The John and James schooner is to have the
honour of carrying us.
" Yours very affectionately, George Vansittakt."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4to.]
[No. 13.]
Rob[er]t Palk'2> [jun.] to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, February 19th. Fort St. George. — " Dear Sir, I em-
brace this opportunity of enquiring after your health and to
thank you for your bountifull kindness to me. I hope that
my future conduct will be such as to meet with your
approbation, and that I shall have it in my power to make
some return for the care you have taken of me from my
infancy. I hope you will continue to favor me with your
friendly advice, which hitherto has been of infinite service to
me, and I do assure you it will always be gratefully received and
acknowledged .
" I most sincerely wish you and Mrs. Palk may have a pleasant
passage, and a happy meeting of your friends in England.
" Lord Cli-\'e quited his Government the 26th ultimo in the
evening, and embarked on board the Brittannia very much out of
order. Before he resigned the Government a great many promo-
tions were made, and amongst the rest George*^' to the Chiefship
of Midnapore. If nothing better offers for me after my arrival
in Calcutta, I intend to ask to be appointed his Assistant, if
he approves it. At present George tells me I had better wait
for something better, but I should be very well satisfyed with
that and the prospect of succeeding him in that employ some
years hence. As George is in a great hurry to get down, we
(1) Henry Vansittart, Governor of Bengal, 1760 — 1765.
(2) Robert Palk, junr., a Bengal civil servant of 1763, was the second son of
Walter Palk (eliler brother of Governor Palk) by his second wife Mary AViddecombe.
(3) George Vansittart.
17 [No. 13
have taken our passage on the John and James schooner, and
are to set out from Trivatore the morning after to-morrow.
" Mr. Pybus'i> has had a severe attack of his old disorder
since your departure, which made him resolve to follow you
on the Anson, Captain Linox, who arrived here four days ago,
but the people on board have the smallpox to such a violent
degree that numbers have died of it, and Mrs. Pybus insists
on his not going on that ship, both on his own account and the
child's. I believe he will be persuaded to wait till October.
" Captain Richardson has come off with flying colours. It
appeared in the course of the examination that cloth was on
board, but the captain and officers knew nothing of it. In
short, the blame was thrown on the doctor, who died before
the ship arrived at Bengal, and the purser, who told the Com-
mittee appointed for the enquiry that, since the blame was laid
to him, he would not take up any of their time in contradicting
it ; so it ended in Captain Richardson's being requested to
dismiss him, which he did, and made the purser an acknow-
ledgement for his great good .nature. <2) Mr. Mackey's'^' account
of their transactions at Teneriffe and Richardson's don't agree
at all, notwithstanding Mr. McKey wrote him what he had said
about it. The Pigot is expected here every day.
" On our journey to Gingee, being the fourth person, [I] was
under the necessity of playing at cards, and by bad manage-
ment and ill luck was a considerable looser, which drove me
to the necessity of applying to Mr. Morse'*' for Pags. 100.
" By a letter I have just received from my father I under-
(1) John Pybus arrived in India as a Writer in 17i3. After the capture of Madras
by de la Bourdonnais he went to Fort St. David, and in 1751 was one of the eight
volunteer officers who joined Clive in the attack and subsequent defence of Areot.
Pybus was Supervisor at Fort Marlborough, Bencoolen, in 1754, and four years
later, when in charge of the Fort St. George Mint, was taken into Council. In
1762 he was sent on a political mission to the King of Kandy, and wrote an interest-
ing journal of his proceedings. He was a Trustee for the Nawab's consolidated
debt of 1767. Pybus married Martha Small in 1753.
(2) George Bichardsou commanded the ship Pigot. Her surgeon was George
Bethune, and purser Mark Carr.
(3) George Mackay came out originally as a free merchant in 1738, and traded
for many years at Madras. When in England in 1766 he was appointed Assay-
master at Fort St. George, and he joined his post in January, 1767. He was
shortly afterwards admitted to Council with the proviso that he was always to
remain its junior member. Mackay took an active part in the subversion of Lord
Pigot's government in 1776, and he was recalled to England in consequence. He
married in 1756 Sarah, daughter of John Stratton.
(1) Nicholas Morse, bom in 1700, entered the Madras civil service at the age
of eighteen. In 1728 he joined the Council, and shortly afterwards became Deputy
Governor of Port Marlborough in Sumatra, where he remained eighteen months.
Returning to Madras in 1729 as a Councillor, he succeeded Bichard Benyon as
Governor in 1744. Two and a half years later Madras was attacked by the French
under de la Bourdonnais, and capitulated under promise of ransom. The terms
were repudiated by Dupleix, and Morse was carried prisoner to Pondicherry, but
was released by exchange. He was summoned to Bngland to render account of
his actions, and eventually returned to Madras as a free merchant. From 1767
he acted as one of Palk's attorneys. He married Jane Goddard in 1730, and his
daughter Emelia became the wife of Henry Vaasittart. Morse died at Madras
in 1772.
S
No. 13] 18
stand my brother'^' is coming out on the expected ships, but
he doth not tell me whether he is coming here or to Bengal.
Should he not come out in the Service, I hope you will interest
your-self in getting him appointed to Bengal. AM your friend[s]
at this place are well, and every thing goes on just as you left
them. I desire my compliments to Mrs. Palk, Mr. and Mrs.
Van(2) and the General,'^' and am with great respect, dear Sir,
Your most obliged and obedient humble servant,
"RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.]
[No. 14.J
Chocapah<*> to the Honourable Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, March 3rd. Fort St. George. — " Honourable Sir, I
shall be extreamly glad to hear of your Honour and family's
safe arrival in England and enjoy [ment of] a perfect health
in that delightfuU country.
" Since your Honour's departure Mr. Bourchier'^' carrys on
his government in good order, and every thing going on at the
same terms [as] when you was here. The Company's broad
cloth on the 27th of last month [was] put up at publick outcry'^'
at the Sea Gate on the usual terms, and sold about 30 lotts,
each lott consisting [of] 5 bales, [viz.] 3 bales of Auroras, one
bale Popinju,'^' and one bale ordinary red, and in some lotts
one bale ordinary yellow, at 585 to 591 Pagodas per lott, and
some Purpatanues(8> at the usual prices, and the remainder they
could not sell at that time.
" Mupral Kistnayah, farmer of Beetle'^) and Tabacoa, having
insulted with the Nabob and made demand [for] dutys for the
trifling Beetle and Tabacoa bought for his Excellency's use,
which the Nabob represented to the Governour and Council ;
and then the Governour and Council examined this in con-
sultation, and said to the said Mupral Kistnaya that he
is not fit to be that farmer any longer, and took away the
said Cowle'io' from him, and gave that farm to one Vidyanado
(1) Thomas Palk, son of Walter Palk by his third wife Mary Mugford, was half-
brother of Robert Palk, jnn.
(2) Mr. and Mrs. Henry Vansittart.
(3) General Stringer Lawrence.
("l) Chokappa Chetti was one of the " Company's Merchants " who were charged
with " the Investment." The Merchants made advances of the Company's money
to the weavers, and were responsible for the delivery of the manufactured goods.
(5) Charles Bourchier, son of Richard Bourchier, Governor of Bombay, arrived at
Madras in 1741 as a AN'riter. Ten years later he was Secretary, and in 17,54, when
Military Storekeeper, Rental General and Scavenger, was taken into Council.
He succeeded Palk as Governor in 17(57. His period of office was marked by the
occurrence of the first Blysore war, and by the execution of a permanent rampart
around the Black Town of JIadras. Bourchier resigned and retired to England
early in 1770.
W PubUc auction. "•
(7) Auroras and Popinjays were varieties of woollen cloth imported from England.
(8) Perpetuanoes, a woollen cloth made in England, so called from its durability.
(0) Beetle, the betel leaf, used for chewing with areca nut and lime.
(10) Cowle, grant, permit, licence.
19 [No. 14
Modely, who was agent to Pushpunado Nainar sometime, and
one Moodu Kistna Modely, the late Arrack farmer, for four years
and five months from 1st of this month, at twenty three
thousand Pagodas for every year.
" I shall be extreamly obliged to your Honour if you will be
pleased to remember your old and faithfull servant Chocapah,
and recommend him to your friends both here and coming up
from thence. . . .
" We have not received any further news from Manilah, what
they have done with our ship and cargo ; and if we are permitted
to send our ships there to trade, it will be a very good thing
for the merchants at this Settlement.
" Since your Honour's departure, here is nothing materials
that I can write to your Honour, but the Governour and Council
deferred the new contract for the Honble. Company's Invest-
ment for the present year imtill first April. . . .
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 1^ p., demy.]
[No. 15.]
Mrs. Mary Powney'^' to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, March 12th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, From
the long acquaintance I have had the happiness to have with
you flatters my hopes that you will pardon the intrusion of a
few lines from an old friend to assure you of the greatfull sense
I shall always retain of the friendship and many civilities you
have so kindly, dear Sir, shewn me, and that my prayers
will be constant for your safe arrival in England and the
continuance of all blessings to you and yours. I hope some
time before this reaches, you will be enjoying yourself in
your own country. Pray present my respects to General
Lawrence and Calliaud,'^' and believe me to be with much
affection, esteem and respect, dear Sir, your most obliged
friend and humble servant, Mary Powney."
" P.S. Sir, I have the pleasure to acquaint you of my son
Will'3' being safe and well at Malacca. Since, I hear he was
arrived at Tellecherry and was going to Bombay, and I am afraid
it will be a ruiness Voyage."
[Autograph, 2 pp., 4to.]
[No. 16.]
MOOPERALA KJSTNIA<*' AND RaMA KiSNA tO ROBERT
Palk, Esqr.
1767, March 15th. Fort St. George.— " Sir, I hope this
will find you safely arrived in England, and that you and
(1) Mary Powney, daughter of Capt. George Heron, master mariner and marine
surveyor, was the widow of Capt. John Powney, master mariner. She died a
centenarian in 1780.
(2) General John CaiUaud. Vide No. 73, p. 102, note 1.
(3) Cf. No. 10.
(*) Muperala Kistnalya held the monopoly for tlie sale of betol and tobacco.
He was the uncle of Bamakrishna.
No. 16] 20
your family have had the enjoyment of a perfect health . . .
and that you will not forget your old faithfuU servants who
begin already to feel the want of your protection.
" Two days after your departure the Nabob delivered a
petition to the Governor and Council accusing me of want of
respect to him, and other trumped up storeys. that I demanded
dutys from him on beetle and tobacco brought for his house-
hold use. You may well remember. Sir, that I once informed
you that on the Begum's arrival there was large quantitys
of beetle demanded, of which the under servants made a job
by selling at the market ; and you was pleased to order me
to acquaint Nazeeb Cawn to take just so much only as was
wanted for the use of the Nabob's family, and accordingly
45 bimdles of beetle (instead of 60) was determined to be
sufficient for every day's expence ; and at the same time I
shewed him the account of the beetle supplied to that time,
amounting to twelve thousand fanams,'i' which he said he
would see about. No more past between the Nabob and me
untill the day after your departure, when some tobacco being
imported for the Nabob was, according to custom, brought
to my godown. The third day after it was brought, and when
my Peons'^* carried it to Nazeeb Cawn, they carried also a
memorandum at his own request of the dutys thereon, which
amounted to a pagoda and odd fanams, and of this the Nabob
made a handle as if I had slighted and made little account of
him ; and the Governor and Council was pleased to reprimand
me very much for it, and determined that it was a sufficient
cause to forfeit my cowl, and the farm was disposed of to
Vaydanadum and Moodukisna conicopoly'^* on the 23rd ultimo
for twenty three thousand pagodas per annum for the
remainder time that I was to have enjoyed it.
" I delivered your letter of recommendation to Mr. Bourchier
before the determination of Council, but it produced no favour-
able effect. I would not have given up the affair so easily
had not Mr. Morse seemed very desirous that I should be rid
of this business. Besides, I was very sensible that I could
have got no redress here, and that the only way to have
righted myself would have been to have pushed the matter
further ; but to a person of my time of life it would be too
troublesome and vexatious. . .
" Upon desiring Mr. Bourchier's advice w[h]at was best to
be done, whether we should put in an answer into the Council,
he told me the Nabob was so irritated that there was no other
method of pacifying him but to surrender up my right quietly :
that the Nabob had thoughts even of taking away the grant
of the village that was allowed for the support of Ramaniaka's
(1) The number of silver fanams to the gold pagoda varied with the exchange.
At this period it was 42.
(2) Peons, office-attendants, orderlies, foot-soldiers, from Port. pedo.
(3) Conicoply, an accountant, from Tam. kanalclm, writing, and pillai, person.
21 [No. 16
charity choultryd) at Checrecoad, and that it was with difficulty
he (Mr. Bourchier) dis[s]uaded him from it. . . .
" The diamond business is growing worse and worse every
day, and if the Gentlemen in England don't stop [the] making
of remittances, (2) they will lose a great deal. The prices at
Moonimadgoo is risen since the purchase for last ship, and the
demand for diamonds increases daily. Goculi^) laughs when
he is asked for the 5,000 pagodas of diamonds he promised
you to give Mr. Morse for this ship, nor can Mr. Morse have
any remedy whilst he [is] supported by gentlemen in station.
Diamonds are carried now to Bengal and Surat, as there are
people now who purchase at those places for Europe.
" We desire you will recommend us to your friends in power
here that we may always have their protection. We wish only
to live a quiet life. Please to present our humble respects
to Mrs. Palk. We are very gratefully. Sir, your most obliged
and obedient humble servants,
" MOOPERALA KiSTNIA."
" Rama Kisna."
[Holograph of Rama Kisna, 5\ pp., Mo.]
[No. 17.]
George Vansittart to Rob[ert] Palk, Esqr.
1767, March 16th. Calcutta.—" Dear Palk, Inclosed is a
duplicate of my letter of the 15th of February. A strong
north-east wind detained us at Madras from the 20th to the
27th. We arrived here the day before yesterday, and the
day after to-morrow I set out for Midnapoor, where I shall
be very well contented to remain quiet and undisturbed
for some years. I believe I may be saved the trouble of a
trip to Europe even if their honours in Leadenhall Street
should take it into their heads to dismiss me in consequence of
our last year's rebellion ; for I have been positively assiu-ed
by people who I should think must know that in such case the
Committee will recommend me to be reinstated, and in the
mean while continue me in the service till their further pleasure
can be received. I am at present on perfectly good terms with
all our rulers, and intend to adopt some of your prudential
maxims.
" What with 30,000 rupees which we have lent to Russell,
and the 20,000 which we are to pay to Robin, your balance
will be but a trifle. We shall keep it in our own hands at
8 per cent, till we have a good opportunity of remitting it.
" My love to Mrs. Palk and the little ones. Yours affection-
ately, George Vansittart."
[Holograph, 2\ pp., Uo.]
(1) Choultry, a, shelter for travellers, from Tel. chavadi, a hall, shed.
(2) A common mode of making private remittances from India was by means
of diamonds.
(3) Gokal Tarvadi, diamond merchant, Cf No. 20.
22
[No. 18.]
Mrs. Rebecca Casamaijor'^' to Robert Palk, Esqr,
[Endorsed in Palk's hand] " Mrs. Casamayor."
1767, March 16th. Fort St. George. — " My dear Sir, As
no distance of place can ever decrease the respect, esteem
and gratitude that is due from me, I hope you will excuse
the liberty I take in troubling you with a few lines to
assure you of my ardent wishes that it may salute you
in your native land after a short and pleasant voyage in
health and a continuance of all other blessings. I suppose
by this time you have reached the Cape or pretty near it, and
hope Mrs. Palk and the little ones will be much benefited by
its fine air aild all other refreshments. As you, dear Sir, have so
great a number of friends to write you all occur[r]ences, I shall
only mention, what I know will give you pleasure, that our
new Governor'-' goes on very well under the weight of govern-
ment, in great spirits, and with much polit[e]ness and chear-
fulness entertaining his friends and company. I hope he will
continue in health and strength to acquit himself to the satis-
faction of all his well wishers. Give me leave to present my
son's'^* best respects, and that I am, with all acknowledgments
and regard, dearest Sir, your affectionate and much obliged
humble servant,
" Rebecca Casamaijor."
[Holograph, IJ p., 4to.]
[No. 19.]
[Colonel] John Call'*' to Robert Palk, Esqr. Duphcate.
1767, March, 19th. Madras.— " My dear Friend, As I
persuaded myself you will impatiently expect to hear of the
progress of the Confederacy against Hydre Ally, so I take up
the pen with the greater pleasure to give you the state of
our military as well as civil transactions since you left us.
(1) Eelii'cca Casamaijor, daughter (ir dipt. .John Powney, master mariner, was
the widow of Noah Ca.samaijor, a supercargo at Madras in 1732, who in 1741 was
appointed to the office of Accounl-a,nt, and, after rising to the rank of Factor died
in 1746.
(2) Charles Bourchier.
(3) James Henry Casamaijor, who entered the Madras civil service in 1762,
and was second of Council in 1789.
(■H John Call, member of a Cornish family, began his Indian career in 1751 as
an assistant to Benjamin Robins, F.K.S., Engineer General, and was graded as a
civil servant. Working first on the St. David fortifications, he succeeded Captain
John Brohier in 1757 as Engineer .-it l^ort (St. George. He developed and extended
the latter fort, and was largely responsible for its successful defence during Lally's
siege of 1758-5y. He was then given military rank as Captain, and laid out the
western extension of the White Town. In -1761 he conducted the siege of
Pondicherry, and became Engineer in Chief in India. In 1762 he was in the Madras
Council, and two years later was present at the siege of Madura. In 1768 he was
one of the Field Deputies with the army. He retired to England as Colonel in
1770, became a member of parfiament in 1784, was elected a Fellow of the Royal
Society, and in 1791 was created a baronet.
23 [No. 19
" Very soon after Colonel Smith'i' arrived at Eiderabad,
which was the 15th or 16th January, the Subahf^) pitched his
tents without the city, and in a few days proceeded towards
the Kistnah, which he crossed the 18th ultimo, having spent
some time in settling with the Polygars'^) on his route. The
19th Captain James Fitzgerald's battalion and Lieut. Povery's
detachment joined Colonel Smith, who had been very uneasy
at the delay of our troops ; but he will be obhged to wait
much longer for those from the Circars, because it was found
necessary to reduce the Zemindars'*' of Peddapore and Samil-
cotah, which kept Major Thomas Fitzgerald's detachment
till the 15th February, and the 9th instant he was only advanced
as far as Sangaverum near Eiderabad, so that it will be the 25th
instant or perhaps the end of the month before he can possibly
join the Subah, who on the 26th ultimo was just entering the
country of Adony. The troops from hence and Vellore were
delayed in the beginning of February by exceeding heavy
rain, which laid all the country under water and made it the
18th February before they joined at Lalapett. From thence
they were to cross into the Cadapah country at a pass called
Mungalpettah, but having been disappointed of provisions
from Arcott, it was the 11th instant before they crossed the
hills, and they are now only near Cadapah, from whence you
may judge it will be the end of the month before they can join
the Subah's army.
" Mahadarow<^' with his Marattas was early in motion and
made very rapid advances to the southward, so that his troops
entered the country of Adony and begun to plunder it by the
end of January. After some threats and a little burning and
fighting, which we suppose was by the Subah's connivance,
Bazalet Jing'^' settled with Mahadarow, and the Marattas
proceeded towards Sera.'^' One of Hydre Ally's Generals met
them with a considerable body of horse, but he was defeated,
made prisoner, and all his guns and baggage taken. Another
smaller body met the like fate, and the Marattas by the last
accounts we had were besieging Sera or Sirpi with their main
body, while the rest scampered all over the country. Hydre
(1) General Joseph Smith, son of Mr. .Joseph Smith, who was Gunner and
Engineer of Port St. George in 1744, entered the Madras service as Ensign in
174!). In 1757 he defended Trichinopoly against d'Auteuil, and was promoted
Major in 1760. As Brigadier-General he commanded the Madras Army almost
continuously from 1707 to 1775, conducting the campaigns against Haidar Ali
and the Raja of Tanjore, and the expedition of 1772 against the Maravars. He
retired to England in 1775.
(2) The Subah, the ruler of the Deccan, Nizam Ali Khan. The word signifies
a province, but it was commonly used for suhahdar, the ruler of a province.
(3) Polygars, local chiefs, the descendants of the old Naiks.
(*) Zemindars, important landholders.
(5) Madhu Bao, fourth Peshwa, 1761—1772.
(6) Basalat Jang, brother of the Nizam. Although the Northern Circars had
been granted to the Company by the Mogul in 1765, it was arranged in 1768 that
Basalat Jang should hold Guntur for life.
(7) Sira, formerly capital of a province of the same name, S.B. of Chitaldrug in
Mysofe. It passed from Haidar to the Marathas, but was reduced by Tipu in 1774.
No. 19] 24
Ally during all this time is at Syringapatam, either collecting
his forces or endevoring to compromise matters for money.
The latter, it is said, will take place, because it is not the inten-
tion either of the Marattas or the Subah to remain on this side
the Kistnah longer than the month of May.
" AUarmed at the apprehension of this event, and that all
our project will be frustrated, we are going to send James
Bourchier'i' to make representations both to the Subah and
Mahadarow how impossible it is to effect the overthrow of
Hydre Ally in any year if they only cross the River Kistnah
in January and recross it in May. For Hydre Ally, aware of
this, need only garrison the places in the Sera Country and those
of his late conquest north of the ancient Mysore country, and
keeping behind Syringapatam with his main body, will never
have any thing to apprehend but the burning and ruining part
of the open country. Whereas if we proceed hand in hand
and continue our operations during the whole year, there is
no doubt but the expedition may be accomplished. Mr.
Bourchier is also to endevor to bring about a formal Treaty
between the Subah and Mahadarow, for which I lately drew
out the enclosed reflections and articles. i^) This Treaty
we esteem absolutely necessary, for we cannot discover that
any agreement at present subsists, and it is said that the
Marattas proceeds on in the manner they do that they may
have the first plundering of the country and possession of what
places they can take. This is a system that must bring on
disputes, and will save Hydre Ally if not prevented.
" The Marattas, it seems, are jealous of the large force we
are sending to the Subah, and from the delay of our troops
conclude we never meant heartily to enter into the operations
against Hydre Ally. In a conversation yesterday with the
Maratta Vakeel'^' Mr. Bourchier endevored to remove that
opinion, and assured him it was so much our intention to pro-
ceed to the utmost extremitys against Hydre Ally that if
Mahadarow would either continue himself on this side the Kist-
nah during the year, or leave Gopall Harry'*' with 10,000 horse,
we would do all we could to persuade the Subah to persist,
and exert our utmost efforts to expell Hydre Ally from the
Mysore country. The Vakeel seemed much pleased with the
assurance, and declared his master wished for nothing so much
as to continue the expedition with us, and he would immediately
acquaint him of our resolutions.
" Thus stand affairs at present, and the prospect of accom-
phshing our views in the ruin of Hydre Ally is very unpromising.
(1) James Bourchier, brother of Governor Charles Bourchier, entered the Madras
civil service in 1751. Ten years later he was a Prize Commissary after the capture
of Pondicherry, and in 1768 was a member of Coimcil. He left India with his
brother in January, 1770.
(2) Vide infra p. 31 ei seq.
(3) Vakeel, agent, envoy.
(*) Gopal Hari Pant, the Peshwa's Commander-in-Chief.
25 [No. 19
The Subah affects to say that the reason so httle has been done
is owing to the delay of our troops, which he expected would
have joined him the beginning of February ; that therefore
nothing can be done this year, and it will be better to take a
sum of money for the present, and return again early next
year on a better plan of operations. To this it may justly be
answered that unless the troops employed against Hydre
Ally continue their operations the whole year, it will be im-
possible to remove him from the Mysore government, because
he has nothing to do but put good garrisons in his frontier
places and avoid a battle with his main body. Three or four
months will then soon be spent, and there ends all his fears.
Whereas if Sera, Chinnabollarum, Bengalure and the other
countries and places north of the Mysore country be first
taken, and the united forces proceed in a body to Syringa-
patam, Hydre Ally must either try his fortune in the field or
lose the capital, and therewith all his power and influence.
I shall only add that , we shall use every argument we can
suggest to induce the Subah and Mahadarow, either in person
or by part of their troops, to continue the campaign during
the whole year ; and if we find they are determined to return
in May, we must take care not to let our expences exceed the
money agreed to be paid the Subah, and we shall know better
what dependance to place on such Allys hereafter. To say
that the Nabob'^' hath contributed all in his power by sugges-
tions and jealousys to break our connections with the Subah
would be advancing what I have no proof of, but if one may
judge from conversation and appearances, he certainly does
all he can to disgust us with Nizam Ally, and to bring about a
closer alliance with the Marattas, in hopes, I suppose, by their
means to share in the conquests to be made on Hydre Ally.
However, he will be mistaken, for except the country of Dinde-
guU and other places on this side the hills, he never shall have
possession of any other while I can help it.
" The disturbances in the Tinnevelly countrys still continue.
Major Flint,<2' after taking two heavy guns from Polamcotah
and a quantity of stores proper for a siege, marched against
the Etavaram Polygar, which lays near Veypar on the east
of that province. He breached the Fort and assaulted it, but
was again repulsed with loss. He then determined to blockade
it, but the Polygars making a sally in the night and being
roughly treated, they abandoned that place, Pannyallum
Crutch and Veypur, and fled no one knows where ; at least
we shall probably hear no more of them till our troops are
recalled. On the west side of the province the rebell Polygars
are still very numerous and in possession of many places, such
as Shatore, Rajapollam, Collangoody and Nadcutch, so that
while they remain there is no chance of peace. Considering
(1) Nawab Walajah.
(2) William Flint, sen., held the rank of Colonel in 1775.
No. 19] 26
therefore that keeping Major Flint's party always in the field,
and that party not being sufficient to crush the rebells or
protect the country, will not only incurr a considerable expence,
but the Nabob will still suffer the loss of great part of his
revenues, we have resolved to send 200 Europeans more to
join Major Flint's party, some sepoys and guns, intending
that the whole shall be 400 military with 6 guns and 2,000
sepoys of the Company's, besides the Nabob's troops and the
Auxiliarys of Tanjore, Tondeman <i' and the Mara war. <2'
Donald Campbell,'^' as the next eldest officer to Colonel Smith,
is to command, and part of his regiment is gone from Vellore.
The Nabob has been very pressing for this party to be sent, and
by some hints occasionally let fall he seems to have in view
the quarrelling with the two Marawars'*' and taking their
country. However, to prevent such a measure he has been
positively told that while he keeps Madurah it is necessary
these people should be his friends, and Donald Campbell has
instructions not to enter the Marawar country under any
pretence, nor suffer any of their places to be attacked. His
operations are to be confined to the rebell Polygars, and these
he is directed to extirpate, to demolish every fort, to make
severe examples of those he takes, and to establish a canton-
ment in such part between Madurah and Polamcotah as will
best answer the purpose of keeping the country in peace.
Donald's knowledge of these parts and the honesty of his
disposition will answer our purpose in sending him, and soon
put an end to the troubles.
" About the middle of last month the Nabob came to the
Fort, and having desired to speak to Mr. Bourchier and me,
confessed to us that he was quite tired with troubles raised and
complaints made to him every day by his managers in the
countrys of Warriarpollam and Arielore. He therefore desired
that we would again take those places under the Company's
protection and raise another battalion of sepoys out of his
troops at these places for the defence of them, but to be com-
manded, disciplined and paid by the Company, though made
good at the end of the year by him. He then said he would
withdraw or dismiss the rest of his troops, and leave the
suppressing Polygars and establishing peace and security
entirely to us, in which he said he hoped the King of Tanjore
would give more effectual and ready assistance. As we hoped
a tryal made of these plans of reconciHng the Nabob's manage-
ment of the revenues with our command of the forces might
(1) Tondiman was the designation oi tlie ruler of a small territory, now the
Pudukottai State, lying immediately south of Trinchinopoly.
(2) Marawar, the ruler of the Marava country. His territory lay on the coast
south of Tanjore and east of Madura, its chief town being Ramuad.
(3) Donald Campbell, brother of Colonel Charles Campbell, was present at the
first siege of Madura in 1763. He conducted the campaign of 1767 against the
rebel Poligars of Madura and Tiunevelly, and subsequently served in the first
Mysore war.
(*) The Great and Little Marawars, of Ramnad and Kalaiyarkoil respectively.
27 [No. 19
induce him to come more readily into tiie same measure for
the Tinnevelly country, and by degrees dismiss all his sepoys,
or at least turn over the best of them to the Company, we very
willingly agreed to his proposal and have chosen Captain
Mathews'^' with two subaltern[s] of the best dispositions and
characters to form this new battalion, to be called the 16th,
and to settle the country. Captain Mathews has very
particular instructions for his behavior, and is fully acquainted
of our hopes and views, and we have such an opinion of his
honor and good temper that we flatter ourselves we shall
be able to convince the Nabob that good men under proper
orders are capable of protecting instead of injuring his affairs.
" After much trouble and some altercation with the creditors,
we got the form of a general Assignment and new bonds agreed
to, and having collected in all the outstanding bonds and
calculated the interest to the 31st January, new bonds were
made out for even sums of money, and all the odd pagodas,
fanams and cash'^' paid off, so that we find the Nabob's real
debt to his private creditors the 1st January, 1767, amounts
to 55,800 Porto Novo and 22,29,650 Star Pagodas."*' To
discharge this the Nabob has engaged that his Naib'*' at Arcott
shall remit us from certain countrys during this year 8 Lacks '^'
of pagodas, and that the King of Tanjore shall pay us his
tribute, so that we are to have above 9 lacks of pagodas. All
this is very well, but three months of the year are nearly
elapsed and not one single pagoda is yet come to our hands,
nor can I say when these will. The Gentlemen from Bengali
who are creditors write in very strange terms, and tax the
Council here with having been very arbitrary and gone much
beyond the Company's orders, and add that they are allowed
by the regulations there to take the usual interest till the
30th April, and after that 12 per cent., which they expect to
have, or else demand immediate payment of their money.
This is very fine in speculation : I may as well insist on it that
I should have 8 per cent, for my money in England because I
live at [a] place where it is the common rate of interest. And
as to demanding their money, why every body else would do
so could they get it. It is necessity that has pointed out the
present regulation to put every body on a footing, and not
any orders of the Council, and I do firmly believe that all the
(1) Richard Mathews served in the first Mysore \v;ir, and commanded at the
attack of the hill fort of MuHiagal in 1768. In 1783, when Brigadier General in
Malabar, he was besieged by Tipu at Bc'duorc. The place surrendered after a
protracted defence, and Mathews was taken to Seringapatam, where he died in
confinement.
(2) The Cash was a coin of account, 8fl f,'oing to tlie silver fanani. The Pagoda
at this period contained i2 fanams. The smallest ropper coin struck appears to
have had the value of 4 cash of account.
(3) The Star Pagoda, first struck in 1741, was a gold. coin with the device of a
star on the reverse. Its sterling value was about 8s. The Porto Novo Pagoda
was coined by the Nawab and was of lower weight and value.
(*) Naib, deputy.
(5) Lack, lakh, 100,000.
No. 19] 28
wise heads in India could not have devised a more equitable
or simple method than we have established. The Nabob now
knows what he owes and to whom (which he never did before)
and every body knows how much he owes and the measures
taken to pay off his debts fairly and equally to all as the money
comes in. We keep an open diary of our proceedings and a
regular sett of books open to the inspection of every creditor,
so that the most obstinate may be convinced of the justice
that is done them.
" The Nabob has sent part of his baggage to the Mounts)
and proposes to leave us about the 23rd instant. It is high
time he was gone, for he never will be easy himself nor let
others be so while he stays here and listens to every tale that
is brought him. Nazeabeaur Cawn'^* has been playing some
tricks at court, and he has got the Subah to forbid the Nabob's
Vakeel from going to the Durbar or from going near Colonel
Smith. This same chap too affects to assume the management
of all our affairs, and lets Colonel Smith know just what he
pleases. The Nabob is much displeased at this, and begs we
will get him removed, for he will otherwise spoil all his and our
affairs. The fifth lack is not yet gone either in bills or money,
nor do I hear when it is to go.
" Lewin Smith'^' hath recovered half the old ballances from
Hussein Ally, and therewith supplyed the northern factorys
with Madrass pagodas,'*' which we cannot get here at any rate.
He is now at Setteavaram settling with Sittaramrauze,'^'
but it seems that chap is very untractable, and does not seem
inclineable to pay even two lacks of pagodas for the Chicacole
Circars. The first point Lewin sticks on is bills for the 3rd
Kist'^' of last year, and he says he hopes to get them in a day
or two. Then he will proceed to the conditions of this year.
Sittaramrauz wants assistance to reduce more Zemindars.
This we are determined not to give, for the more powerful he
is made by our means the more troublesome he will prove to
us hereafter, and I think I see already that he must be reduced
next year or the latter end of this.
(1) St. Thomas's Mount, a hill 8 miles S.W. of Madras, capped by an ancient
Portuguese chapel, is the reputed original burial place of St. Thomas. The East
India Company established a garden-house at the Mount in 1685, and the place
became a sanatorium and holiday resort. Prom 1770 it was the headquarters of
the Madras Artillery.
(2) Najib Yar Khan.
(3) John Lewin Smith entered the Madras civil service in 1752, and two years
later was a member of the Vizagapatam Council. He accompanied the expedition
of Cornish and Draper to Manila in 1762 as one of the Company's representatives.
In 1767 he was serving as Chief at MasuUpatam.
(4) The Old Madras Pagoda bore figures of Vishnu and his two wives on the
obverse, and had a granulated reverse. It was replaced by the M.M. Pagoda in
1730, which gave way in its turn to the Star Pagoda. The Old Madras Pagoda
however continued to be struck at Port St. George for use in the Northern
Settlements.
(B) Sitaram Raz was a powerful Zemindar of Chicacole in the Northern Circars,
who tyrannized over his weaker brethren.
(6) Kist, Ar., instalment of revenue.
29 [No. 19
" We have made Bandarmalanka'^' an independant factory
of Mazulipatam, and given Whitehill'^) leave to send one of
the servant[s] to MadapoUam in hopes of getting more cloth.
Sulivan(8> is gone with him as an assistant. Charles or James
Bourchier will tell you a long story of the Vizagapatam Invest-
ment. I fear that part of the Camden's cargoe is in the same
condition ; if so, it may spoil the sale of all the other goods ;
therefore it should be hinted to the Directors to examine the
Vizagapatam bales. The discovery has retarded the dispatch
of the ship much, and given us abundance of trouble, for some
of the Council attend every day to examine every bale and
every piece. Nor is this all the inconvenience we have to
apprehend, for many other bales from the northward not
being arrived, we fear we shall not have tonnage enough for
the Pigot.
" We have yet received no further news of our Manilla ship,
nor of the sepoys from Zoloo.'*' The Minerva from Pegu is
just come into the road, but I cannot say what kind of voyage
she is likely to make. The Swan, after many perils and adven-
tures, got safe to Malacca, and from thence sailed to the Malabar
coast, where, we hear, she arrived the middle of January, and
Will Powney'^' was then very well. The Devonshire's packet
and recruits were landed at Anjengo and sent to Palamcotah,
from whence we received our letters, and among them several
for you, which Mr. Morse took in charge. This ship was at
anchor in our road during part of the gale of wind, and suffered
much in the masts and rigging, so that she was obliged to bear
away for Galle after trying to reach Madrass again.
" I have now written all the publick news I can recollect.
As for private anecdotes I have none but such as you will have
elsewhere, especially of George,'^' who left us about three weeks
ago. A sly chap he was never to drop an hint or let me dis-
cover by any means what he was about. Though I knew it
very soon, yet we never exchanged a syllable on the subject
to the time of his embarking from [? for] Bengali. Poor James
(1) Bandarmalanka. Vide No. 69, p. 94, note 2.
(2) John Whitehill entered the Madras civil service in 1752, and was one of
the Prize Commissaries for Pondicherry in 1761. When Chief at MasuUpatam in
1776 he visited England, and on his return in the following year found himself
provisional Governor pending Thomas Bumbold's arrival. He agaia acted as
Governor in 1780 until suspended by the Governor General for disobedience.
(3) John Sulivan was one of three brothers who served in Madras. The eldest,
Benjamin, arrived in India as a barrister in 1777, and was appointed successively
Government Advocate, Attorney General, and a Judge of the High Court. The
second brother, John, entered the civil service in 1765, successfully tendered in
1771 for the erection of the Madras Arsenal and new Hospital, and afterwards
served at Masulipatam and Tanjore. Prom 1801 to 1805 he was Under Secretary
for War at home, and he survived until 1839. His younger brother, Richard
■Joseph, became a Writer in 1768, was afterwards Secretary in the Military Depart-
ment at Port St. George, and was created a baronet in 1804.
{*) Zoloo, Sulu, a group of islands in the Eastern Archipelago, whither Alexander
Dalrymple had been sent in 1762, to open up trade with Madras.
(S) Vide No. 10, p. 14, note 2.
(8) George Vansittart and James Bourchier both sought the hand of Miss Sarah
Stonhouse, The lady accepted Vansittart.
No. 19] 30
was greatly hurt at first, and is still very dolorous, though he
declares he will not think of any closer connection.
" Government seems to set very easy on our Friend. He is
very desirous of making every boddy happy, and of pleasing.
I ease him as much as possible of all military plans and details,
and indeed I am never happier than when I can be of use to
him or the publick. I shall be perfectly easy till I hear from
you or see Mr. Du Pre'^' arrive, and then I shall consider about
returning to England, but I will do nothing rashly. My concerns
in the Nabob's hands will keep me at least till the end of next
year, let what will happen, for I must get home some more
money.
" Lord Clive writes me, just as he was preparing to embark,
that he should endevor to send Dupre to Bengali if he was not
appointed to this place before his Lordship got home. For
my part I am as indifferent about it as ever I was about any
event of my life, and I think I should rather rejoice than repine
at a good reason for going home.
" I hope you have found England every thing you expected
or could wish it. Perhaps the introduction of Mr. Pitt — I
should say Lord Chatham — and Lord Shelbomrne to the Ministry
may have brought Mr. Sulivan'^' again into the direction, and
consequently Mr. Van.'^* I wish all my friends well and
(1) Josias Du Pr^, son of the Company's Secretary of the same name, entered
the Madras civil service as Factor in 1752 at the advanced age of 31. He served
as Secretary and Solicitor to Government, and in 1761 was Tenth of Council and
Import Warehousekeeper. After a period spent in England, during which he
married Rebecca, sister of James Alexander of the civil service, he returned to
Madras in 1768 as second member of Council. He negotiated the peace of 1769
with Haidar Ali at St. Thomas's Mount, and in January, 1770, succeeded Mr.
Bourchier in the chair. His period of oflSee was marked by a great development
of the fortifications and buildings of the Presidency town, by improvement in the
pay and position of the Company's servants, and by difficult relations with the
Nawali resulting from the action of the Crown. Du Pr^ resigned in February,
1773, and returned to England to reside at Wilton Park, Bucks.
(■2) Laurence Sulivan was appointed a Factor in the Bombay civil service in
1741. Ten years later he entered Council, but returned to England in 1752 on
account of ill-health. In 1755 he was elected a Director of the Company and
served four years, becoming Deputy Chairman in 1757 and Chairman in 1758.
Thereafter he was repeatedly re-elected to the Directorate, and he held office as
Deputy Chairman in 1763, 1772 and 1780, and as Chairman in 1760, 1761 and 1781.
Prom 1760 he was in conflict with Clive's party, who opposed his. great influence
on Indian policy. When invited by a resolution of the Court of Proprietors to
return to India, Clive made his acceptance conditional on Sulivan's exclusion from
the Chairmanship in 1761. From 1765 to 1768 Sulivan was out of the Direction,
but his impecunious circumstances and love of power impelled him to bid for office
again and again. He was on good terms with Hastings, and was an intimate
friend of Robert Palk. Sulivan sat as M.P. (or Taunton from 1762 to 1768, and
for Ashburton from 1768 to 1774. He died in February, 1786.
(3) Henry Vansittart, son of Arthur Vansittart of Shottesbrook, Berks (whose
daughter Anne married Robert Palk) was born in 1732. His mother was a daughter
of Sir John Stonhouse, Bt. Appointed to the Madras civil service at the age of
thirteen, Vansittart arrived at Fort St. David in 1746, narrowly escaping captm'e
off Madras, which had been taken by the French. He studied Persian assiduously,
and early in 1754, when Secretary and Translator at Fort St. George, he joined the
Rev. Robert Palk in a mission to Sadras to confer with the French regarding a
suspension of hostilities. In the following December he accompanied Palk to
Pondicherry in conne.xion with the Treaty of Peace with the French. In the same
31 [No. 19
happy, and I know of none who partake more sincerely of my
best wishes than you and Mrs. Palk, to whom I desire my most
respectful compliments, hope all the little family is well, and
desire you will believe me, my dear Sir, your most oblige[d]
and affectionate
" John Call."
[Autograph, 21 f pp.. Mo.]
[Enclosure.]
[Memorandum by Colonel John Call.]
" We are now entering on a very interesting and expensive
expedition, but the expence will be well laid out if the grand
object can be accomplished.. This object is the entire overthrow
of Hydre Ally Cawn, who has usurped the government of the
Maysore country, and being at the head of a large body of
forces, in possession of a considerable treasure and revenues,
and ambitious of extending his conquests, appears ready to
take the first opportunity of invading the Carnatick and dis-
turbing the tranquility of that part of the country which it is
our principal care and interest to maintain and preserve in
peace.
" The Marattas, it is imagined, are equally desirous of reducing
Hydre Ally's power, and fortunately for us Nizam Ally Cawn,
Subah of the Decan, hath desired that the assistance of our
troops, which we are bound by treaty to give him, shall
immediately be employed for the same purpose. Nothing
could tally more exactly with our own interest and inclination
at this juncture ; and though we ought to be exceeding cautious
how we contribute to aggrandize the power of the Marattas,
yet as it is not possible for us to act against them in conjunction
with the Presidency of Bengal, agreeable to Lord Clive's grand
plan of reducing the Maratta power in general, till we have
reduced Hydre Ally and secured peace to the Carnatick while
we are employed elsewhere, so on this occasion we must tern--
porise and seem to fall in with the views of the Marattas, who
are the avowed and natural enemies of Hydre Ally.
" The grand point we have to obtain at the first setting out
is to bring about a formal Treaty between the Subah and
Marattas, by which the pretensions of each party may be
ascertained, and the disposition of the conquered countries
fixed. For unless this is done it is hardly possible that
two powers acting from different motives and independent
year he had married Bmelia, daughter of Xicholas Morse, late Governor of Madras.
He was a member of Mr. Pigot's Council in 1758, and in the following year was
nominated Governor of Bengal in succession to Clive. Vansittart assumed office
in July, 1760, and ruled Bengal until 1764, when he returned to England. He
purchased a house at Greenwich and property in Berkshire. Entering Parliament
in 1768, he was elected a Director of the East India Company in 1769, and was
appointed one of three Commissioners to effect reforms in India. The
Commissioners sailed in the Aurora in September, 1769, and the ship was never
heard of after she left theCape in December,
No. 19] 32
of each other should persist in the prosecution of an enterprise
where many events may be expected to embroil them with
each other, or to divert one of them from the undertaking.
With us it is quite different : we only seek to procure tranquility
for the possessions we have, and we think that point cannot be
obtained while Hydre Ally Cawn continues to govern the
Mysore country. No offers, no concessions, no opposition
ought to divert us from our purpose if it can be effected : on
the other hand we had better never engage in it unless we can
make sure of our Allys and fix them steady in the same pursuit.
" The Subah, it may be supposed, will be the most easily
prevailed on to abandon the expedition, provided Hydre Ally
makes large offers of money, because the Subah's treasury is
quite empty, and there is a strong party at his court, who,
actuated by the same motive, will plead strongly in favor of
Hydre Ally. Should we discover this to be the case, and the
Marattas continue firm, we must endevor to form a closer
connection with them, for it may be regarded as certain that
with their assistance the object of the expedition may be
accomplished though the Subah should not take any part therein.
Nay, more, it is highly probable that the Subah, seeing us and
the Marattas determined to persist, will rather fall in with our
views than risque the loss of his importance by withdrawing
from the Alliance.
" But should the Marattas, either by the force of money or
from a political motive founded on the apprehensions they may
entertain of ours and the Subah's designs against them after
the downfall of Hydre Ally is effected, be induced to accom-
modate matters with Hydre Ally, and, while the Subah is
engaged on the expedition, form designs on any part of the
Decan or threaten the Carnatick with an invasion, it is beyond
a dovibt that we shall be obliged to relinquish the enterprise.
This event then is to be guarded against by every precaution
we can suggest, and in order to accomplish the establishing
a Treaty, as well as to reconcile all jealousys and apply in
time proper arguments to prevail on both parties to adopt our
sentiments, it appears highly necessary that some person of
consequence should be sent to attend the Subah and Mahadarow
while Colonel Smith is engaged in his military operations, who
by his address and attention to every turn and event may
manage both parties in such a manner as to keep them steady
in prosecuting unanimously the expedition against Hydre
Ally.
" One maxim must be laid down as positive and without
deviation (viz.) That as httle territorial possession as possible
be ceded to the Marattas, and in case the cession of some part
cannot be avoided, then it should be in that part of Hydre
Ally's possessions most remote from the Carnatick, that they
may not become our neighbours. To obviate any discontent
on this head, a larger sum of ready money must be given by
33 [No. 19
the Subah, and the future Choute'D be engaged to be punctually
paid.
" On these principles it is to be wished that the following
articles could be agreed to between the Subah and the Marattas
under our guarantee.
" 1st. The contracting Powers, assisted by the Enghsh
forces, shall mutually and vigorously act in conjunction against
Hydre Ally Cawn till he falls in action, is made a prisoner, or
quits the government of the Maysore country and all other
countries he has usurped ; and neither party shall withdraw
their forces or make a separate peace without the consent
and approbation of the other party.
" 2nd. Whatever forts or towns may be taken during the
course of the expedition shall be garrisoned and kept by the
Subah's troops till disposed of as hereafter stipulated ; and
in case any treasure is found therein or otherwise taken, it
should be equally divided between the contracting parties.
" 3rd. When Syringapatam is taken and the country of
Mysore entirely reduced, the government of it shall be restored
to the ancient family of the Rajah upon their agreeing to pay
annually a tribute or peshcush'^) to the Subah of lacks of
rupees.
" 4th. The country dependant on Sera or Sirpi being an
ancient domain of the Subah of the Decan, he shall be at
liberty. to appoint whom he pleases to the government thereof,
and fix the peshcush at what sum he thinks proper.
" 5th. The country lately conquered by Hydre Ally Cawn
from the Queen of Biddanore shall be given up (if it cannot be
avoided) to the Marattas, to be by them restored to the late
family that governed, on such terms as they can agree on.
" 6th. All the other countrys and districts on the Malabar
coast conquered by Hydre Ally shall be restored to the late
possessors on such conditions as the Subah shall think proper ;
unless under this article the Subah, in return for the services
we may have rendered him, shall so manage that the English
Company may have certain grants and privileges near Calicut,
Tillichery, Onor,'^' or at other places most convenient for their
trade.
" 7th. The country of Bangalure, that of Chinnaballabaram,
and that formerly possessed by Mararow'*' near Cadapanattam'^'
shall be disposed of as the Subah shall think proper, and the
peshcush to be paid for them shall be settled by him.
" 8th. The country of Dindegul shall be restored and ceded
(1) Choute, tribute levied by tlie Marathas of one-fourth of the revenue ; from
Mar. chauth, a fourth part.
(2) Peshcush, tribute ; from Pers. pesh-kashin, to place before (a person), to offer.
(3) Onor, Honavar, a port on the Malabar coast.
'*) Morari Rao, a Maratha freebooter, Chief of Gooty, served as a mercenary
in 1750-54, sometimes with, but generally against the British. He declared himself
independent, but was compelled to submit to the Peshwa.
(5) Kadapanattam, 60 miles west of Vellore.
C
No. 19] 34
in perpetuity to the Nabob of the Carnatick as a dependance
on Trichinapoly, and all the countrys on the east of the hills,
such as Ahture, Chilnaick, Gegadevy, Vaniambady, &c., and
all the passes near them, shall be put into the said Nabob's
hands and ever hereafter be deemed a part of the Carnatick
Pay en Gatte,'^* in consideration of his having paid part of the
seapoys with the English troops on this expedition.
" 9th. That part of the country taken by Hydre Ally Cawn
from the Cudapah Nabob shall be restored to him, and the
peshcush of that country fixed on reasonable terms, provided
he assists with all his troops on the expedition.
" 10th. A provision of some country, either what he at
present holds, or elsewhere to a larger amount, shall be made
for Mararow in consideration of his services, if he assists against
Hydre Ally.
" 11th. Bazalet Jing and the Nabob of Canoul shall acknow-
ledge the Subah's sovereignty over the countrys they now hold,
shall always be obedient to him, and pay annually such a sum
for peshcush as the Subah shall agree to.
" 12th. In consideration that Mahadarow faithfully agrees
to all the above articles, and assists the Subah to establish
his authority over the above countries, he shall be paid at the
end of the expedition the sum of lacks of rupees, and
shall receive annually from that time as a lawful choute one
fourth part of all the peshcush the Subah receives from the
countries south of the Kistnah."
[10 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 20]
[Colonel] John Call to Rob[ee]t Palk, Esqr.
1767, March 21st, Madrass. " My dear Sir, By the Anson
I have sent you, on your own account and risque, with some
diamonds of my own and Gocull's'^i 2,000 Pags. worth, the
produce of which will be paid you by Mr. Cotsford,'^) and
you will also receive herewith a bill at 8s. 9d. the pagoda
for 1,800£, being an equivalent for Pags. 4,114 9f. 65c.
more, which you run the risque of home ; so that your
whole risque on the Anson is Pags. 6,114 9f. 65c., and
would have been about 8,000 Pags. but that I was obliged
to spare some to Mr. Morse in return for some he gave you on
the Camden. If any more diamonds come in before the Pigot
sails, which I imagine will be in fifteen days at farthest, I shall
endevor to send some on your account, or to get bills.
" The remains of your money advanced to GocuU for
diamonds is Pags. 7,885 32f. 15c., which you may be assured
I will get in diamonds or bills as soon as possible, or make him
(1) Payen Gatte, the territory below the Eastern Ghauts ; from Pers. pa.in,
below, and Hind, ghat, a range of hills.
(2) Gokal Tarvadi, diamond merchant.
(3) William Cotsford.
35 [No. 20
pay the interest between the dispatch of the Pigot and the
October ship.
" The Marattas, it seems, have taken Sera, Meddighery,
formerly belonging to Morarow, and Rani-beddalure, where
the Queen of Biddanore was confined, and are now advancing
to Syringapatam. I only wish they may continue their
measures, and that we may not quarrell by and bye with them
to take out of their hands what they thus lay hold of before
we and the Subah join them.
" Lewin Smith hath got Soucar^' bills from Sittaramrauze
for his third kist of last year amounting to If lack of rupees,
but he still writes that he is apprehensive he s'hall not prevail
on the Rajah to pay two lacks of pagodas for the next year
without assisting him with troops, which we are utterly against
and hope to avoid.
" Mr. Law<2' some time ago returned to Pondichery, and
the moment he landed put Mr. Bayellan and all or most of the
Council under an arrest for their very refractory conduct
during his absence. He brought Nicolas and other Councillors
back with him to occupy their places, and it is said he is deter-
mined to send them all home on a ship now ready to be dis-
patched from Pondichery. We hear they have at present
no money to advance for an Investment. I can recollect
nothing more to add but to repeat my assurances of being,
my dear friend, your very obliged and affectionate
" John Call."
[Holograph, 3 pp.. Mo.]
[Enclosure.]
GocuLL Tarwaddy to Messrs. John Call'^) and William
CoTSFORD, General Post Office, London.
" Exchange for £sl800 at 8s. 9d. and 80 days.
1767, March 21st, Madrass. " Gentlemen, Thirty days after
sight of this my second bill of exchange (my first and
third of the same tenor and date not being paid) and
upon the safe delivery to you of two bulses of diamonds
sealed with my seal and marked No. 17 and 19, value as
per invoice sent you Pags. 19,204 23f. 50ca. please to pay
to Robert Palk, Esq., or his order, at whose risque so much
of the said bulses of diamonds is to be conveyed to you,
the sum of eighteen hundred pounds sterling out of the
produce of the said bulses of diamonds. But in case of the
loss of the said bulses or any part thereof, you are then only
to pay to the said Robert Palk, Esq., or his order, at the rate
of 8s. 9d. for every pagoda's worth of diamonds of my concern
delivered to you according to the price in the invoice, and you
(1) Soucar, a native banker.
(2) Jean Law, Chief of Cossimbazar and brother of Jacques Law who surrendered
at Srirangam, returned to France in 1762. He was subsequently appointed
Governor of Pondicherry.
(3) Father of Colonel John Call.
No. 20] 36
will place the whole of this transaction to the account of,
Gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,
" GocuLL Tarwaddy."
[Autograph, \ p., demy.]
[No. 21.]
Ch[arle]s Bourchier to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
[Endorsed in Palk's hand] " Governor Bourchier."
1767, March 22nd, Fort St. George. "My dear Friend,
I am almost too late to send you even a line by this ship,
the Anson, though she has been detained much longer than
I expected by a lucky discovery of some torn and darned
cloth in some Vizagapatam bales overset in the surff, which
led us to an examination of some others, and to our
astonishment above a 6th part of their whole Investment
has been found in that condition, which is above 130 bales.
We thought it therefore most prudent to land near 300 bales
that had been shipped on board, and they being in the same
state with the rest, it is well we did so, or we might
have incurred severe resentment from home. I think they
will not disapprove this proceeding, though it has occasioned
the ship's detention, as such a quantity of torn cloth must
have prejudiced the sale of the rest, and the freight on it
would have come to as much or more than the demorage
incurred by the delay.
" I ha^'c had scarce a leisure hour since you went, so much
has the ceremonials on my coming to the Government, the
correspondence with officers on command, frequent visits to
and from the Nabob, who is still here, and much other business
engrossed my time and attention. You must forgive me there-
fore if I do not give you a detail of our political affairs since
your departure. This I am the less anxious about, as Call tells
me he has wrote you fully on the subject. It is one I must
own I am not fond of, but our engagements with the Soubah
have led us into such a scene [? skein] that it will require more
of my attention than any other part of the Administration.
His Excellency'!' can't avoid still shewing his enmity to the
Soubah, but as I have already found that being a little austere
sometimes, and insisting on his compliance with what is right,
has a proper effect in keeping him within bounds, I hope to
prevent his being so ridiculous as to let his idle conduct be
known so as to reach the Souba's ears. I have indeed, my
dear friend, a hea^'y burthen to support for some time. I
have, however, the pleasure to tell you my friend Call is kind
enough to assist me very essentially, and I hope, if I enjoy
my health as well as I do at present, I shall rubb through it
tolerably well and see you at furthest in the year 1770.
" At the Nabob's desire I have sent you a letter from him
(1) Nawab Walajah.
37 [No. 21
inclosed. He imagines Mr. Van Sit tart can explain it, and
therefore would not have it wrote in English.
" I send you one also for Mrs. Palk from Miss Stonhouse.d'
I beheve it is on a subject that you little imagine, and that it
will therefore surprize you both. I confess to you I wish she
had never made her appearance in this Settlement, for she gave
me much uneasiness before you went on account of my brother's'^)
•attachment, and this has been much increased by George Van
Sittart's paying his addresses to her, which he did within a week
after you was gone. After he had in a manner engaged her
consent, which, however, I must say she told him she would not
give without I approved it, he came to talk with me about it.
I candidly made him acquainted with my objections, indeed as
freely as I did my brother, and assured him, as I was persuaded
it would give you and Mrs. Palk uneasiness, I never could
concurr in it. He endeavored all he could to induce me to
determine otherwise ; but as you and Mrs. Palk seemed averse
to my brother's being so attached, I could not imagine otherwise
than that you will be much. more affected at George's desire
to be so intimately connected with her.<^' I therefore persisted
in assuring him I could not alter my resolution, which he took
in very good part, as he said he perceived it proceeded from the
affection I bore you and Mrs. Palk. In what manner he repre-
sented it- to the young lady I can't say, but she has never even
hinted to me a word of what had passed between her and George.
Since he left us I have heard that they are so farr engaged that,
if he is not ordered home for his behavior to Lord Clive, which
he suspects may happen, he is under a promise of marrying
her. I have taken an opportunity of letting her know that I
imagined such a step would not be looked upon by you and
Mrs. Palk as a handsome return for your kindness to her here.
This has in some measure embarrassed her, but still I find she
thinks her honor is too farr engaged with George to retract
with credit to herself ; that is, according to my idea of the
matter, that she would not willingly have you and Mrs. Palk
displeased, but finds it too good a match to be relinquished ;
and if you are so, she can't help it. I may be too severe in my
sentiments of her possibly, and I shall be sorry if I am so, but
I can't divest myself of the opinion I once told you I had of her,
that she is mistress of too much art for so young a woman,
and in many circimistances relating to her conduct I am con-
firmed in it, as are many other people here. I shall \ea.ve no
endeavors untried to prevent their coming together that I can
decently pursue, persuading myself that you and Mrs. Palk
will be pleased if I succeed. Poor Jim cannot divest himself
(1> Miss Sarah Stonhouse, daughter of the Rev. Sir James .Stonhouse; 7th Bart.,
a physician who afterwards took holy orders, became the ^v'ife of George Vansittart.
She and her husband were remote cousins, his mother having been Martha Ston-
house, daughter of Sir John Stonhouse, 3rd Bart.
(2) James Bourchier.
(3) Mrs. Palk was Vansittart'a sister.
No. 21.] 38
of the prejudices he had in her favor long before you went away,
although he yielded to my persuasions and yours to decline all
thoughts of her for a wife ; indeed he has been more affected
since George became her admirer than before, arising both from
his affection for you and Mrs. Palk, and his regard for the young
lady, and what will be the end of it I don't know. I wish he
may not run away with her from George, and yet he is so
different from what he used to be that I had rather see him
married to her than that he should continue under so great an
anxiety of mind as he now does. At the same time I shall be
extreamly sorry if she is ever married to George, for I much
doubt from the short acquaintance they have had together if
they have realy much affection for each other, and she seems
to be ill calculated to make a discrete wife for so careless a chap
as George is. In short, my dear friend, the whole affair has
perplexed and vexed me to a very great degree, and I am not
likely to be relieved from this situation for some time. I
sincerely wish you and Mrs. Palk may suffer much less about
her than I have done. I have desired Mrs. B. will send me no
more female recommendations, and I must entreat the same
favor of you and Mrs. Palk.
" Of the two pipes of madeira you left here to be sent home,
Capt. Lennox has taken one, as will Richardson the other.
Lennox's receipt is inclosed, and as he is a very obliging, good
kind of man, I cannot avoid, as it is [his] particular request,
recommending him to your kind offices if it should at any time
lay in your power to assist him in geting a good voyage.
" As you was so kind to give me leave, I have desired Mrs. B.
and Cotsford to consult you in the disposal of some money I
remitted home by the Camden and now do by the Anson, and
I shall be obliged to you to favor them with your advice on
the occasion. There are great complaints of the bad quality
of the diamonds now sent, which makes many people appre-
hensive they will sell very ill. In this you are interested as well
as myself. If they should do so, how are we to get home any
more of our money at a better exchange than 7s. 8d. ? Pray
favor me with your sentiments about this matter.
" My being obliged to neglect Mrs. Palk by this conveyance
concerns me much, but you are so powerful and [?an] advocate
that I doubt not you will readily prevail on her to forgive me.
Let me beg you will assure her that, although I make but an
awkward figure in her place at the head of the table, a remem-
brance of her civilities is too strongly imprinted in my mind
for me e^'er to think otherwise than that I am under the greatest
obligations to her, and my best wishes always attend her.
Be assured, my dear friend, I have as deep a sense of gratitude
for your innumerable favors conferred upon me, and can never
cease to acknowledge myself your most sincerely obliged and
affectionate " Ch^- Bourchier."
[P.S.] " The Pigot will sail in about ten days or a fortnight."
{Holograph, 7| pp., 4io.]
39
[No. 22.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad" to [Robert] Palk, [Esq.]
1767, March 22nd, Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, I embrace
the very first opportunity, my dear Mr. Palk, of returning you
my unfeigned thanks for the favors you heaped on me during
your stay in India. There is not, I assure you, a day passes
but they occur to me, nor do I ever reflect on them without
earnestly wishing you will give me some opportunity of shewing
the grateful sense I must ever retain of them.
" Nothing material has occurred in the Company's affairs
since your departure, and the operations going forward will
be so much better related by your other correspondents that I
shall avoid troubhng you with anything on the subject.
" I have received a bond from the Nabob for the thousand
pagodas he promised to Withecombe's'i' father. It becomes
due the 1st February, 1768, and bears interest at 10 per cent.
As you left me no instructions concerning it, I know not whether
you would chuse the whole to be remitted when it becomes
due, or whether the bond is to be renewed and the interest only
sent home annually. I beg you will write me on this subject.
I shall remit the first year's interest without waiting your
reply.
" There is one circumstance, my dear Sir, on which I must beg
your advice. I remember you once mentioned to me that the
reduction of the Nabob's interest would be a considerable
drawback to my mother's income. It struck me so much
that I could not make an ingenuous reply, for you must know
that I have never allowed her more than 8 per cent, and my
. reasons were these : — When my mother offered me this money,
it was with a view of being of service to me as well as herself,
and she repeatedly wrote me that she should be well satisfied
with 8 per cent. When I put it into the Nabob's hands I
concluded the risk to be mine, and therefore never wrote her
that it was there. I declare solemnly that, had the Nabob
failed, I should have thought myself accountable for the money
(as indeed I do to this moment), and I so far concluded the
interest to be mine that I remember to have once wrote her
that I cleared 12 per cent, by the money. I beg, my dear my
[?Mr.] Palk, you will favor me with your opinion on this matter.
If you think the 20 per cent, should go to my mother, I will
chearfully pay it, for I shall be then convinced that I have acted
wrong, though without any intention of doing so. It will,
I confess, be some disappointment to me, but I would pay fifty
times the sum rather that it should be imagined I could enter-
tain a thought of keeping to myself what is the right of another.
" The dispatch, which we thought would be nothing, has
-(1) This Witheoombe, who had probably been in the Nawab's service, may have
been a connection of Robert Palk, whose brother Walter married into the family
of Widdicombe (or Withecombe). Robert Palk, jun., left a legacy to one Thomas
Witheoombe. Cf. No. 414.
No. 22] 40
proved very heavy, and fagged me confoundedly. It is in a
good cause, and I shall probably continue writing in the same
post these ten years. . . .
" I flatter myself this will find you happy to the utmost of
your wishes, rewarded with ease and tranquility after a scene
of care and trouble. You know not, my dear Mr. Palk, how
well I wish you, I beg you will present my respectful
compliments to Mrs. Palk, and believe me with real esteem and
regard your infinitely obliged and obedient humble servant,
"W. M. GOODLAD."
{Holograph, 3| pp., 4to.]
[No. 23.]
George Vansittart to Mrs. [Anne] Palk.
1767, April 3rd, Midnapore. — " My dear Mrs. Palk, — Here
I am, safely moored for I hope four or five years, and perfectly
well pleased with my new abode. I wrote to Palk the middle
of last month by the Nottingham. If the Mercury, which is
now just ready to sail, should chance to arrive first in England,
pray acquaint him that I believe I should be saved the trouble
of a trip home even if the Court of Directors, through their
great impartiality and clemency, were to rout me out of the
service by their answers to the Grenville. I have been assured
by some members of the Select [Committee] 'that I should be
maintained in my station till their further pleasure could be
known.
" My present place of residence is very different from the
greatest part of Bengal. Instead of being a low, rich soil, it is
a high spot, ^'ery hard and rocky, and looks as if nature had
intended a hill but miscarried ; and at this season of the year
land winds prevail similar to those which you used to be so
fond of at Madras.
" Three days ago I wrote to Harry,"-' but I forgot to inform
him of a piece of news ; so I must employ you to communicate
it to him — an office which, as you are so well versed in the revolu-
tions of Hindostan, you will doubtless have pleasure in executing.
The Abdallee'2' having thrashed the Sics'^' and obliged them to
pay him a large sum of money, is advanced to within a few
cose'*' of Delly at the head of 100,000 horse. He has written
to the chiefs of the empire to attend him with money and troops,
and it is said to be his intention to seat himself on the throne
of Hindostan. So our old friend Shah Aulum'^' is like to lose
his kingdom. Yours most affectionately,
" George Vansittart."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4io.]
(1) Henry Vansittart.
(2) Ahmad Shah Aljdali, otherwise called Ahmad Shah Durani, approached
Delhi with an army in March, 1767, but retreated in the following month.
(3) The Sikhs.
(5' Cose, coss, a variable measure of distance, generally about two miles.
(5) Shah Alani, the titular emperor.
41
[No. 24]
Chocapah to the Honourable Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, April 3rd, Fort St. George.—" Honourable Sir, I had
the honour to write a few lines under the date of the 3rd of last
month per ship Anson. . . Last Monday the Governour and
Council was pleased to settle the present year's contract for the
Honourable Company's Investment the same as last year, but
only took the long cloth medhnd' from Dessoo Reddy and gave
to Mootamary Chitty. Dessoo Reddy and Moota Chitty have
not behaved well in their duty of bringing their cloth agreeable
to their contract. . . The Governour and Council was pleased
to tell me in consultation that I have behaved very well, and
they are willing to give me some more articles, but there is none
at present, and therefore I must be contented with the
Salempores<2) fine, the same as last year.
" We have not yet received any further news from Manilah,
which we expect every day. The Nabob still remains in the
Company's Garden, and it seems that he will go to Trichnaply
in a day or two. . . .
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp., ito.]
[No. 25]
[Colonel] John Call to. [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
1767, April 6th, Madrass. — " My dear Sir, By this ship you
will receive a duplicate of what I wrote you by the Anson. I
believe I shall not be able to get any more diamonds to send
you till next October. If any should come they will be sent
partly on your account to Mr. Cotsford and my father as before.
" All the detachments of our troops having been very near
the Subah the 25th ultimo. Colonel Smith waited on the Duan'^'
and acquainted him that he was very uneasy at the Subah's
dilatory manner of proceeding, and the reports which were
spread of his intention to return very soon to the Decan and to
make up matters with Hydre Ally. He therefore desired to
be informed without evasion what were the Subah's real
intentions, that he might judge how far it was consistent with
his orders to conform thereto. After many excuses the Duan
declared that the Marattas having deceived the Subah and
already plundered all the country of what was to be got, and
the season of the year being far advanced towards the period
of repassing the Kistnah, the Subah for these reasons was
resolved to accept Hydre Ally's offer of money if he would pay
50 lacks of rupees, and proposed to defer the prosecution of the
expedition till next year, when he should set out much
earlier.
(1) Middling, of medium texture.
(2) Salempores, a variety of cotton cloth, made chiefly in South Arcot.
(3) DiMn, diwdn, the Nizam's minister.
No. 25] 42
" This ivas an event we most apprehended would ruin all our
project, and you may imagine Colonel Jo'^' was very much
chagrined. He urged a thousand arguments to induce the
Subah to persevere, and above all assured him that there never
was a finer body of troops sent out of the Carnatick than we had
sent out on this occasion, and that perhaps it might not be
in our power to assist him so effectually another, time. Both
the Duan and Subah seemed deaf to all that could be urged, and
only replyed that the Marrattus had always deceived them,
and that in future they would entirely be guided by our advice,
being persuaded of our real inclination to support the Subah's
authority. Thus matters stand with Jo and the Subah ; but
we do not yet give up the point, and James Bourchier with
Stracey'^) set? out to morrow to try whether he can be more
successful in the persuasive strain, or else to insist on the
Company's possessions and the Carnatick being included in any
arrangement that may be made with Hydre Ally.
" About the same time we received Jo's letter a Vakeel
arrived from Mahadarow, acquainting us of his master's success
in taking Sirpi and all the country north of Bengalure, asking
Choute for the Carnatick, and expressing a surprise that we
should have joined the Subah with such a powerful body of
troops without acquainting his master. To the first part we
replyed that we were very glad to hear of his master's success ;
to the second, that we never should consent to pay any Choute
for the Carnatick after the King'^' and the Subah had confirmed
it as an Ultumgan'*' or free gift to Serajah Doulah,'^' and after
we had fought so much to maintain it in its present state : he
would therefore do well to touch no more on that subject. To
the third we observed that the Subah had assured us of a solid
and firm agreement made between him and the Marattas to
attack Hydre Ally, and that we had readily joined him in
consequence, and even acquainted Mahadarow of our intentions,
though he affected to be surprised at it. The Vakeel then
complained of the Subah's dilatoriness, and said that his master,
finding the Subah was resolved to make up matters and return,
had been necessitated to adopt the same plan, though much
against his inclination.
" We told the Vakeel that we had still hopes of engaging the
Subah to persevere, and therefore desired he would write his
master to defer the intended accommodation and wait till our
army came up. To this he observed that his master could not
depend on the Subah, but was apprehensive that with our
(1) Joseph Smith.
(2) Edward Stracey, a Madras civil servant of 1758, was Persian Translator in
1769,, when he accompanied Du Pr^ to St. Thomas's Mount to settle terms of peace
with Haidar.
(8) The Mogul.
(*) Ultumgan, from Turk, and Hind. aUamgah, red seal, i.e., a royal grant under
red seal.
(5) Siraj-ud-daula, one of the titles of Nawab Walajah. Cf. No. 36, p. 58.
43 [No. 25
assistance he intended to quarrell with the Marattas. If we
would engage to join Mahadarow and act with him, he would
readily stay and prosecute the expedition to the utmost we
could wish, without retaining any countries in his hands. After
much other discourse it appeared clearly that Mahadarow was
very suspicious of the Subah's designs, and would not wait till
he came near him, but that he would be very glad to have our
friendship, and act, as the Vakeel expressed it, under our orders.
There is no saying what quantity of truth there is in all these
declarations, but that we may lose no opportunity of coming
at the designs of the Marattas, I am to set out privately
to-morrow under pretence of visiting and providing for the
defence of the passes, and when arrived at Cadapanattum or
Palameleru,(i) Mahadarow himself, as the Vakeel says, but I
suppose some person deputed by him, is to come thither and
communicate to me the Marattas' real intentions, and if
anything can be effected to gain our point against Hydre Ally,
I hope to accomplish it without interfering with the grand
plan laid down by Lord Clive.
" If both the Marattas and Subah (with whom we are deter-
mined not to break, and risque the tranquility of- the Circars)
are resohed to go back next month, we shall then so far change
our project as to endevor to bring about a peace between the
Subah and Hydre Ally exclusive of the Marattas ; to confine
him to the ancient Mysore dominions, settle the future Peiscash,
and engage him to assist us against the Marattas if there should
be occasion hereafter.
" Mr. Bourchier seems a good deal affected with this
disappointment of his hopes, and many of the members of the
senate cry out, ' I said it would come to this, and a pretty figure
we cut truly.' For my part I think very differently, and see
nothing more in it than this : — The Subah by treaty is entitled
to our assistance ; he asked it, and we gave it to him. He told
us he should attack Hydre Ally, and we rejoiced because it
coincided with our interest. We even went farther and sent
a powerful body of troops, hoping by that step to engage the
Subah to root out Hydre Ally entirely ; but he never promised
us any such thing, and perhaps never intended to do more
than draw a sum. If then we are disappointed, we have nothing
to blame but our own sanguine hopes, which flattered us that
everjd;hing would go on as we would have it. Another time
we must endevor to know what we are going about before we
set out ; and at present comfort ourselves that we have faith-
fully adhered to our engagements and have 7 lacks of the
Subah's to make good the expence, besides 10 lacks of rupees
left clear to the company out of the Circdr revenue, Lewin'^'
having at length let the Chicacole country to Sittaram and
Ragorauze for 8 lacks of rupees clear of charges.
tl) The Pass of Palmaner in the -Eastern Ghauts is 10 miles N.E. of the Pass of
Kadapanattam, which is itself 50 miles due W. of Vellore.
(2) John Lewin Smith, Chief at Masuhpatam.
No. 25] 44
" We are forming a party of observation at Vellore, and I
propose to reconnoitre Gegadevy'i' and Vaireambady,'^' so
that if a good opportunity offers, I have leave to attempt
to gain possession of these places.
" The Nabob goes away in three days to Arcott. His money
begins to come in from the 1st instant to pay his private
creditors, and I hope he will not fail in his engagements. He
is still as jealous as ever of Nizam Ally, and at variance with
all his own family.
, " My respects to Mrs. Palk. I have not time to say more
than that I am, my dear friend, your most obliged and
affectionate
" John Call."
[P.S.] " Pray show this to General Caillaud ; I have not time
to write to him."
[Holograph, 8 pp., 4to.]
[No. 26.]
George Purnell'^' to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, April 7th, Fort St. George. — " Sir, I take the hberty
to trouble you with enclosed dupHcate of my last respects to
you of the 22nd of last month, and now beg leave to . . repeat
my most earnest request that you will interest yourself and
influence your friends on my behalf. I present my humble
respects to Mrs. Palk.
" George Purnell."
" P.S. — Sir, Since writing the above I have transcribed
sundry letters from Mr. Morse, dated the 2nd instant, to his
correspondents in England, wherein he acquaints them of his
design to withdraw from business after the dispatch of the ship
in March, 1769. It is therefore most humbly submitted to you,
Sir, whether, for divers reasons too obvious to need repeating,
it be not the more necessary to make immediate application
to your friends in my beKalf, lest any delays might be
prejudicial to my interest. I flatter my self, Sir, that you will
be so good [as] to excuse this sollicitude in me.
" G. Purnell."
[Holograph, 1 p., demy.]
[No. 27.]
Rob[er]t Palk [jun.] to Robert Palk, Esqr., London.
1767, April 7th, Fort William. — " Dear Sir, I deferred writing
to you by Captain Howe as I was in the hope of having something
satisfactory to write you regarding myself. When I left Madras
I thought I should not meet with any diffiQulty in getting
(1) Jegadevi Pass, through which flows the Palar River, is 60 miles S.W. of
Vellore.
(2) Vanlambadi, on the Palar River, where there was a fort, is 35 miles W.S.W.
of Vellore.
(3) George Purnell was a free merchant of Madras.
45 [No. 27
appointed George's'^* assistant to Midnapore in case nothing
better offered. On my arrival here I found that vacancy had
been filled up by one three years younger in the service than
myself. I was told on my arrival that gentleman should be
removed if possible to make room for me, but now I am told it
can't be done. I have been assured by persons to whom you
have recommended me that I shall be provided for the first
opportunity ; so that I can give you no better account of myself
than that I am living in Calcutta at a great expence without
anything coming in.
" When I arrived here I found the money you lent me laying
dead in your attorney's hands, notwithstanding the particular
request of George that it should be employed to the best
advantage. I am now employing it to the best advantage, but
I fear I am rather too late to expect much from it this season.
" Mr. Kelsall'2' is appointed Chief of Dacca in the room of
Mr. Cartier,'^' who resides in the Presidency as Second [in
Council.]
" Two of our brigades are marched towards lUiabad on a
report of the Abdallah's'*' coming down from Delly against us
by the particular desire of Shuja Dowla,'^' as it is asserted, who
in all probability will join them against us.
" I will (for many reasons) defer writing any thing of the state
of affairs here in this Settlement, &c. You will hear from other
hands how matters go on. I hope you will not forget to send
me Chambers's Gardenner's Dictionary.
" Mrs. Plowman'^' has been delivered of a child, and is so ill
that the doctors think she will not get over it. I desire my
compliments to Mrs. Palk, and am with great respect, dear Sir,
your most obliged and obedient servant,
"RoBT. Palk."
" p.S. — I wrote to you and Mrs. Palk, before I left Madras,
by the Anson."
" 12th April, Mrs. Plowman is no more."
[Holograph, 2| pp., Uo. Wax seal bearing the Palk arms.]
[No. 28.]
Ja[me]s Johnson(7> to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
1767, April 11th, Fort St. George.—" Sir, You kindly promised
to use your influence in my behalf with the Court of Directors
for my admission into their service, and though I have httle
(1) George Vansittart. , ^ „
(2) Thomas Kelsall, a Madras civil servant of 1755, was transferred to Bengal
in 1766. In 1767 he was 9th member of Council.
(3) John Cartier succeeded Verelst as Governor of Bengal in 1769.
(4) Ahmad Shah Abdali.
(6) Shuja-ud-daula, Nawab Vizier of Oudh.
(6) Wife of Henry Plowman, George Vansittart's partner in private busmess.
(7) James Johnson, » free merchant from 1764, was associated with W. M.
Goodlad, the Civil Department Secretary, in private business. He was afterwards
employed by the Nawab.
No. 28] 46
pretence to such an act of friendship from you, the encourage-
ment you ever gave me induces me to solhcit your good offices.
" The Nabob's debt is at last settled. The amount of the
new bonds is Porto Novo Pags. 55,800 and Star 22,29,650.
Payments of the revenues began the first instant, and 29,000
pags. and a bill for a lack and ten thousand rupees are already
received. 'Tis imagined when the Tanjour tribute of 4 lacs
of rupees are received there will be money sufficient to make
a general dividend of 10 per cent. Mr. Ross,<i) who you know
is busy in all affairs but his own, has endeavoured, contrary to
the general voice of the creditors, to obstruct the proceedings
of the trustees and alter their plans. His remonstrances were
too unreasonable to merit even an answer.
" Some bales of Vizac[apatam] cloth were in landing
accidentally damaged. Being opened, it was discovered that a
very considerable part was torn. All the bales being examined
were found in the same condition. John Davidson,'^) the
Warehousekeeper, we fear will bear the whole censure at home.
His letter on the subject, far from vindicating him, acquaints
the Council with more truth than prudence that inexperience
makes him unfit for that employ.
" I must not forget to thank you for your promise to Goodlad
of recommending us to the Coral consigners. I think it a
valuable branch of business if early entered into, and it cannot
be very desirable to persons high in the service, as you have
already experienced. <3'
" I desire you will present my compliments to Mrs. Palk. . .
" Jas. Johnson."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4to.]
[No. 29.]
J[ohn] M[axwell] Stone<*' to Rob[er]t Palk, Esq.
1767, April 15th, Fort St. George. — " Dear Sir, I could not
avoid by this conveyance enquiring after your's, Mrs. Palk's
and your family's health, particularly as it gives me at the same
time an opportunity of expressing the sense I have of the many
obligations I am under to you . . .
" With regard to publick affairs, I make no doubt but you
will have a full account of them from Mr. Bourchier and Mr.
Call. I shall, however, do myself the pleasure of acquainting
you with the most material occurrences since you left us.
(1) Andrew Ross arrived as a free merchant in 1752. He toolt a prominent
part in civic affairs, and ultimately died at Madras after a continuous residence
of 45 years.
(2) John Davidson, a civil servant of 1753.
(3) Coral was originally imported from Europe by licensed merchants under a
bond that the sale proceeds should be devoted to the purchase of diamonds. Prom
1761 the Governor of Madras was permitted to receive a consulage or commission
on the coral so imported. The privilege was relinquished in 1800.
(*1 John Maxwell Stone, a civil servant of 1755, was Secretary in the Military
and Political Department. He entered Council in 1774 and afterwards supported
Lord Pigot's party. He married Mary Seale in 1757.
47 [No. 29
"The detachments from Vellour and the Circars, on account
ot the many unforeseen difficulties they met with from the
badness of the roads, could not, by the last advices, have joined
the Soubah before the 10th instant. Mr. James Bourchier set
ott trom hence a few days ago for the Soubah's Court to assist
Colonel Smith m endeavouring to prevail on him to persevere
m the expedition, as he has already given proofs of his back-
wardness under pretence that it cannot be finished in time to
return before the rising of the Kistna. He had only advanced
as far as Raydrugure [?]H) on the northern confines of Hyder
Ally's country, and it is much to be feared a small sum of money
will induce him to march back without even attempting any
thing to Hyder Ally's prejudice. Maudharow, on the other
hand, has been very active, having already over-run great
part of the Biddenore country, taken Shirpi and several other
places, and was marching towards Bengalore. He has had large
offers from Hyder Ally, who remains at Syringapatnam, to
withdraw, but what his intentions are we know not. The
different conduct of Nizam Ally and the Morattas was a
con^ancing proof that they had not agreed on any settled plan
of operations, and indeed Ruccun Ud Dowla'^) at last acknow-
ledged as much to Colonel Smith. It was therefore a part of
Mr. Bourchier's and Colonel Smith's instructions to bring them
if possible to some certain determination with regard to their
proceedings, as well as concerning the disposal of the countries
that may be conquered from Hyder Ally, regarding which such
proposals were laid down as were thought would be agreeable
to both parties. After all, it is much to be apprehended that
Hyder Ally will escape for this time on paying a sum of money,
as the Soubah's poverty, with the rapaciousness of his ministers,
will probably, in spite of every argument that can be urged,
induce him to make up matters and return. Lest this should
be the case, a detachment of 200 infantry, four guns and a
battalion of sepoys is ordered to be posted near the passes to
oppose Hyder Ally, who will, if he has leisure, most probably
attempt to disturb the Carnatic. Or, if the expedition goes on,
and Hyder Ally should be obliged to withdraw his troops from
any of the posts near the passes, we may get possession of
such as it may be of importance to secure.
" This is the present state of affairs. A few days more will,
it is hoped, determine the fate of the expedition. The general
observation is how necessary it was that the Soubah and the
Morattas should have been brought to some fixed and settled
plan before General Caillaud left Hydrabad,'^' as Maudharow
has not been within 200 miles of the Soubah since Colonel
[Smith] joined him, and the Soubah seems so much incensed
at the Morattas having got the start of him, that it will probably
(1) Probably Rayadrug, a hill-fort close to the Mysore frontier.
(2) Rukn-ud-daula, Minister and Commander-iu-Chief-to Nizam Ali.
(3) In 1766.
No. 29] 48
be difficult to bring them to act with that unanimity so necessary
for insuring success.
" The Circars of Ellore, Rajahmundry and Mustaphanagur
are entirely settled in peace, and all the Zemindars have been
brought to acknowledge the Company's authority. The
Chicacole Circar is lett for eight lacks of rupees for the present
year. Sitteramrauze has only taken the district of Vizianagram ;
the other part of the Circar is lett to one Ragorauze.
" Mrs. Stone continues in but an indifferent state of health.
She joins in the sincerest wishes for your's, Mrs. Palk's and
your family's health and happiness, and in best respects to
General Lawrence, with him who is, with the greatest gratitude
and esteem, dear Sir, your most obliged and obedient humble
servant,
" J. M. Stone."
" P.S. I need not say how happy I should be in receiving
a line from you. My little girl is very well, but I cannot prevail
on Mrs. Stone to let me accept of your exceeding kind offer."
[Holograph, 4 pp., flscp.]
[No. 30.]
John Pybus'i* to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, April 15th, Mount. '2' — " My dear Friend, Having
finished all my publick business for this ship, I am come out
here to spend a few days with my good woman and her boy
before she takes leave of this delightful retirement, which must
now be soon, for the weather begins to be uncomfortably warm.
I had hopes of His Honor's'^' company to celebrate with a
few more friends my dear little Patt's birthday, but he has yet
many letters to write to England, which will detain him in town,
where he suffers from the longshore winds'*' and wishes for an
opportunity of getting relief from this purer air. His Excellency
the Nabob, with much seeming reluctance, left us the day before
yesterday for Arcot, where he proposes making a short stay
and then proceed[ing] to Tritchanopoly. Money comes in but
slowly from him for discharging his private debts, and you may
suppose his creditors are consequently clamarous. The vicinity
of the Morattoes has given the Nabob some disquiet (though I
think he has nothing to fear from them) and the apprehensions
of an incursion into this country from those maroders alarm
people whose only hopes of recovering their fortunes from
the desperate state in which they at present consider them
are wholely founded on it's tranquillity. Call has, I make no
doubt, given you a minute detail of all military and political
transactions since you left us. He is at present on the look
out at Cuddapanatam Pass for a Vakeel from the Moratta
(1) Vide No. 13, p. 17, note 1.
(2) St. Thomas's Mount. Vide No. 19, p. 28, note 1.
(3) The Governor, Charles Bourchier.
(*) An enervating S.S.W. wind.
49 [No. 30
Mahadarow in hopes of diving into his designs. His'i' progress
in the Mysore country has been very rapid and success astonish-
ing, having taken Sirpi, Medgeri and many other small forts
from Hyder Ally without the least opposition. The Queen of
Biddanore(2) and most of the principal people of distinction
belonging to that country were prisoners in Medgeri, and have
been set at liberty by Mahadarow. Hyder Ally is in Siringa-
patam preparing for a vigorous defence should the place be
attacked, which will depend on the Subah's resolves. James
Bourchier is gone to him<^' with a view of leading him on, but
Colonel Smith seems to apprehend the influence of Hyder Ally's
money will be more powerful than all the arguments which he
or James can urge. The Morattoes, we heard some time ago,
were about settling for a sum of money, but as they still con-
tinue their ravages 'tis plain no treaty can yet have taken place.
Todd <*' has had a most laborious, tedious and fatiguing
march from Vellour towards the Subah. He moved the 23rd
February, had not joined Colonel Smith the 5th instant, and
judged it would be still six or seven days before he could.
Fitzgerald'"' with the detachment from the Circars joined Smith
the 2nd. Want of provisions has been an universal complaint
from all quarters, and as the Morattoes have scoured the whole
country through which our troops are to march if they move
farther south, and the Subah's army consists of a most numerous
rabble, I think this will prove an insuperable obstacle to our
operations, unless by moving towards the passes it should be
in our power to furnish supplies of grain from this country.
The Subah seems unwilling to remain south of the Kistna during
the rains, and unless he does, all the past will be labor lost.
Hyder Ally writes to us submissively and sues now for the friend-
ship he before rejected. If we can make use of his fears to
get possession of the forts which command the passes leading
into this country, and to secure such priviledges for the Company
on the Malabar Coast as the gentlemen there have soUicited,
'tis all we must flatter ourselves with hopes of from the
expedition, and more, I fear, than we shall be able to accomplish.
You know it never was a plan that I could think well of, but
my best wishes for it's success have kept equal pace with those
who were the most sanguine for it.
(1) Madhu Rao.
(2) Bednur, a town and district in the north-west part of Mysore. The last
Raja dying in 1755, left an heir, Chen Busvaiya, under the guardianship of his
widow. The Rani compassed the death of the heir, and in 1763 Haidar attacked
Bednur, ostensibly to avenge the murder. The Rani capitulated and was im-
prisoned, and for some time Haidar contemplated making Bednur his capital under
the name of Haidamagar.
(3) The Subah, Nizam Ali.
(4) Charles Tod was, as Captain, Commandant of Sepoys during the siege of
Madras of 1758-59, and subsequently Town Major of Port St. George. In 1767,
as Lieut-Colonel, he was placed in control of the whole of the native infantry. He
served in the first Mysore war.
(5) Major Thomas FitzGerald. Vide No. 144.
» D
No 30] 50
" Donald Campbell^) is gone ' with a detachment from the
garrisons of Vellour and Tritchanopoly to settle the southern
countries, and Major Bonjouri^) is out with a party to prevent
if possible any incursions from the Morattoes through the
passes.
" Smith'^) has settled with Sittaramrauze for the Cicacole
country at eight lacks, and soucar security has been given for
the third kist of last year. Nothing more from the northward
since you left us.
" A sad discovery has been made of negligence in embaling
the Vizagapatam Investment, and I fear that part which went
by the Lord Cambden was in no better condition. We have
exculpated poor old Smith,'*' and Davidson t^' is ordered up.
Humanity has saved him from dismission, which he well
deserveH.
" Madge'^' wrote to me to endeavour to get home for him a
chest of table china intended as a present for Colonel Monson,'^'
which he said you would clear from the India House. Capt.
Lennox of the Anson was so obliging as to carry it. The mark
or any thing else relating to it I am ignorant of, but I suppose
Madge has wrote to you about it,
"George Vansittart, you will no doubt have heard from other
hands, has made a bold stroke for a wife, but James Bourchier
seems still to maintain his influence with the young lady, and
'tis yet a doubt who will be the happy man. I shall leave this
subject to be treated on more at large by those who know more
of the matter than I pretend to do.
" You will by this time, I suppose, be about leaving the Cape,
where I think it likely you would meet Lord Clive if he recovered
his health. India affairs would afford you a large field to
expatiate on. He, you and Van<^' must go hand in hand, and
take upon you the whole management of the Company's con-
cerns at home, and then some regular plan and system may be
laid down for conducting them abroad, where they begin to
require very able heads and honest hearts for supporting with
honor and advantage the whole vast superstructure which has
been so suddenly and successfully raised. The most rigid
rules of abstinence are still observed in my family that no
(1) Vide No. 19, p. 2(5, note 3.
(2' Major Al)raha,m Bonjour. In 1772, as Lieut. -Colonel, lie held a command
under General .Joseph Smith in the Marava expedition, when owing to a miscarriage
of ordoi'S great slaughter took place among the unresisting enemy at Kaliyarkoil,
the capital of the ' Little Marava.' Malignantly attacked in England by Sir
Robert Fletcher, Bonjour was completely exonerated by the Madras Government.
He left India in 1775 and settled in Switzerland.
(3) .John Lewin Smith, Chief at Masulipatam.
'*) John Smith, Chief at \'izaga.patam.
(5) .Tohn Davidson, riJe No. 28, f). 4 6.
(8) Captain Thomas Madge, late lieuten.int in H.M.'s 9Gth Regiment, entered
the Company's service in 1764. He commanded a battalion of native Infantry
in the Northern Circars.
(7) Vide No. 6, p. 12, note 2.
(8) Henry Vansittart.
51 [No. 30
impediments may prevent the execution of our plan for leaving
India in October next ; so that, let what will happen, you may
be assured of seeing me in England about this time twelvemonth.
We are looking out hourly for a ship from Europe, and are told
that Du Pre'i) may be expected as a successor to Mr. Bourchier.
Such an appointment after a service of four and twenty years
would hurt me, I confess, because 'twould be disgracieux to
go home under so disagreeable a circumstance ; but so much
is my heart set upon being with my young family that no
consideration upon earth shall keep me another year in India
if my boy is able to undertake the voyage, which I thank God
we have at present great encouragement to hope will be the
case, as he continues stout and jolly, and is almost weaned
already. I shall hope the pleasure of finding a letter from you
either at the Cape or St. Helena in my way home, for I shall be
anxious to know how poor Mrs. Palk passed the first two or
three months of her voyage, which must, I think, have tried her
patience, spirits and constitution unless that unhappy woman
you carried with you was either soon relieved from her misery
or recovered ; and I am most heartilj^ vexed to think she should
have had so little feeling or consideration for her mistress as
not to have accepted the offer made her of being accommodated
here. Mrs. Pybus desires most affectionately to be remembered
to you, and joins with me in the same to Mrs. Palk. I hope
your dear little ones got well over the voyage. Our kind
compUments if you please to Harry Van and his family and
General Caillaud "
" John Pybus."
[Holograph, 6 pp., 4to.]
[No. 31]
Henry Brooke <2> to Robert Palk, Esq., at the East India
House, London.
1767, Aprill 16th, Fort St. George, per the Pigot, Capt.
Richardson. — " Dear Sir, I have the pleasure of acquainting
you that a few days after your departure Mr. Bourchier and
the rest of the Gentlemen did me the honour of calling me to
a seat in Council. Sensible of this, my utmost endeavours
shall not be wanting to render myself worthy of it, and I flatter
myself that, had you been present, your concurrence would
not have been refused, especially after so strict a scrutiny into
the Manila disputes had been made, in which I was unhappily
concerned. I hope nothing has been determined in your
opinion but what will prove my attachment to the Company's
interest throughout the whole of that expedition. Had I been
d' Vide No. 19, p. 30, note 1.
(2) Henry Brooke entered the Madras civil service in 1751, and eleven years
later joined the expedition of Admiral Cornish and General Draper against Manila.
He -was admitted to Council in 1767, and in 1776 took an active part in the de-
position of Lord Pigot. In consequence he was recalled to England, prosecuted
and iiued. He married Mary Allbeary in 1764.
No. 31] 52
deficient in my duty or conscious of any failure in my integrity,
I would not dare to entreat your good offices for me in the
House when those affairs come before them. The great bulking
of those papers will frighten the members from a reading of
them : they will of course refer to you, who have had that
trouble. Your opinion as chief judge here will undoubtedly
carry the greatest weight with them ; and as you have allready
exculpated me from any capital error, I hope for a continuance
of your favour. I am the more induced to this as I am given
to understand Mr. Bean is sent home on the Anson by Mr.
Drake'i' in the nature of a solicitor, who boasts not a little of
his interest at home, the power of Sir George Pocock,'^) &c.,
his relations.
" Since your departure I have ad[d]ed a little daughter to
my family, and I have the satisfaction to say that Mrs. B. is
perfectly recovered, who joins with me ip wishes for your and
Mrs. Palk's happiness. . . .
" Henry Brooke."
[Holograph, 2-|- pp., 4fo.]
[No. 32]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, April 16th, Fort St. George. — " I shall never be able
to let a ship go, my dear Mr. Palk, without paying my respects
to you, for I must ever be mindful of your favours.
" The copies of letters'^* which I promised you have been
brought up only to August, 1765. The remainder shall be sent
by the October ship. Captain Richardson will deliver you
what are done.
" I am much hurried, and therefore unable to write long
letters, but beg you will tell Mrs. Palk as a piece of news that the
agreeable Mrs. Maitland'^' of Cuddalore is engaged to Doctor
Buchanan. . . . '^'
"W. M. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo.]
(1) Dawsonne Drake, a Madras civil servant o{ 1742, was in Council in 1759, and
in 1762 was nominated prospective Governor of Manila. He eventually became
a, free merchant.
(2) Admiral George Pocock served under Admiral Watson at the capture of
Gheriah in 1756 and of Calcutta in 1757, and on Watson's death succeeded to the
command of the East India. Squadron. He fought actions with d'Ach^ off Cuddalore
in 1758 and off Ceylon in 1759. He subsequently commanded in the West Indies
and was present at the capture of Havana in 1762.
(■" These copies are probably those now preserved in the British Museum,
{Add. MSS. 34,688).
(4' Jane de Morgan became in 1761 the wife of Lieut. Richard R. P. Maitland,
who died of wounds at the siege of Madura in 1764 {LiM of Inscriptions,
J. J. Cotton).
'^' Dr. Duncan Buchanan married Mrs.. Jane Maitland iu 1767.
53
[No. 33.]
George Smiths' to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, October 30th, Fort St. George. (Received per Hector,
22nd April, 1768.)—" Sir, I did myself the pleasure of writing
you by the Glaten, Capt. Doveton, whom I fell in with in the
Straights of Banca last January, and informed you of my
fortunate escape from Manila and the treatment I had met with
there. The Nabob writes the Company on this subject, and
sends them a copy of my memorial and an estimate of the losses
arising to him from the iniquitous measures of the Spanish
Governor, which amounts to Spanish dollars 144,650, which if
paid we shall make a good voyage. I am not. so sanguine in
my expectations as to hope for this sum, though no more than
we have a jurt claim for, yet I think the justice of the Ciatholic]
King will order us a restitution of the presents extorted from
us and the ship's demurrage during her illegal detention in his
port. If the Company views this matter in its proper light, it
will appear interesting to them, because they have not only a
large duty on the goods provided and sent to Manila, but out
of the specie, the produce of said goods, they are supplied with
silver* for China ; and if this is not imported from Manila or
Europe all the rupees in the country will be drained for China,
and in a short time none to be had, which would be attended
with serious consequences unless they send silver to Canton
from England, which they have not done for some years past.
In this view I hope they will regard the matter, and apply to
his Majesty for his good offices, through his minister at the
Spanish Court, for redress of our losses, and that the trade be
put on a more certain footing in future ; that is, to obtain
permission for the Nabob to send his ships to Manila under
the direction of such Evuropeans as he may appoint ; for if the
C[atholic] K[ing] employs foreigners in his service, why may
not the Nabob ? I hope you will use your influence to bring
this about by the Company, as well as with his Majesty's
ambassador at Madrid."
Various circumstances have prevented me from making
remittances to you either from China, Batavia or Madras, but
" I have told Mr. Morse that I would pay him the sum I owed
you on demand, or continue it at interest untill I could remit
it to you ... I hope you will pardon any disappointment which
may arise to you from this money's not being paid in England
when due, as it arose from a series of events which I could
neither foresee nor prevent ... I have however the satis-
faction to inform you that the sum I owe you is as good as any
in India, malgre Dom Joseph Raon,'^) whom if he had
succeeded in his avaritious views would not have incapacitated
me from paying my debts. I therefore account myself rich.
(1) George Smith came to Madras as a free merchant in 1754, and subsequently-
spent several years in China.
(2) Governor of Manila.
No. 33] 54
I received from the General of Batavia the greatest marks of
politeness and civilities, and obtained a valuable and well
assorted cargo at that port to the amount of 70,000 rix dollars,
and could the Sultanissa have carried goods for all the silver
on board her, I could have had them, and no questions asked.
But all the advantages I expected from this indulgence were
frustrated by Capt. Scott's want of judgement and experience
in steering an improper course for Ceyloan, which obliged us to
bear away for Atcheen, finding it impracticable to fetch any
part of this coast, not even Point Palmeiras. We were so far
to the East of Ceyloan when in its latitude, and blowing hard,
the south west monsoon having broke on us the 18th May, we
were obliged to" bear away for Atcheen, which we could not fetch,
so were forced to go to Queda, which we reached in great distress.
We arrived here only the 21st September, and unfortunate as
our voyage has been, I hope we will still get our principal
concern if the Sultanissa can get a freight to Bombay from
Bengal, where she is now gone ; and I hope Mr. Russell will be
able to obtain this for us. If the C[atholic] King is just and
generous we will get the interest on our capital.
" The money which you lent Messrs. Jourdan,'i' &c., I have
delivered to Mr. Morse : this sum and that lent Capt. Scott "
I was unable to remit during my voyage, and I could not think
of leaving it " in the hands of any person at Batavia (where a
man to day exists and to-morrow is no more) until October,
when it would be received into the Company's cash.
" I brought several curious pieces of Japan ware and china
from Batavia, and made a tender of some of them to Mr. Morse
for you, but he told me that you had been amply supplied before
you departed from hence.
" I am favored with a most friendly letter from Mr. Vansittart
this season, wherein he very kindly desires me to communicate
my views as to myself, should not my Manila voyage
have answered my expectations ... I have taken the liberty
of hinting- to him that I should be greatly obhged to him for
an introduction into Mr. Morse's house on his return to Europe
or retiring from business ... as I intend residing here untill
I can go home on the terms I have always proposed for myself. . .
£20,000 realized in England is the extent of my present wishes,
and but for Dom Raon, I should now have been of this value.
As matters have turned out ... I rpust labour some years
more ... so have dropt my thoughts of seeing England so
soon as I hoped ; and now I have my hands at the oar I must
even pull away untill I have got my vessell into port . . .
" Mrs. Munro'2) desires her compliments to you and Mrs.
(1) Francis Jourdan joined as a Writer in 1759, and accompanied the Manila
expedition in 1762. In 1776 he entered Council and held the appointments of
Land Customer, Rental General and Scavenger. He sided with the majority
against Lord Pigot, and was recalled to England in 1777.
(2) PrancesMaryMunro, widow oF Dr. Andrew Munro and aunt of George Smith.
She resided at Madras until her death in 1771.
55 [No. 33
Palk, and says she hopes you have assisted in getting Aurora'^'
sent to her under care of a proper person. I have received
Bob's'2) dividend of the Nabob's debt to him, and will continue
to receive any more which may be made him, which I 'fear will
be but small and slowly paid. His mother is very anxious
about hers, and no wonder, as almost all her money is in those
funds. It will, I hope, in time be paid off.
" I was happy to hear of your and Mrs. Palk's safe arrival
at St. Helena, and hope this will find you happily setled in Old
England, where that you may live long in health and prosperity
I most sincerely wish . . .
" Geoege Smith."
" P.S. The money I had in the Nabob's hands was
fortunately paid off in the currency of 1766 as my bonds
became due."
[Holograph, 7 pp., 4to.]
[No. 34.]
John Calland'^) to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1767, November 3rd, Fort St. George. — " Sir, The many
friendly offices I have received from you, added to the assurance
you gave me on leaving India, induces me to take this oppor-
tunity of writing you, as it will inform you of a circumstance
the most interesting to me that has ever yet happened, since it
not only effects [sic] my character but future expectation, and
has badly rewarded me for so many years' service . . .
" You can be no stranger to the malicious disposition of the
gentlemen that I had for my Counsel at Cuddalore, who by
encouraging every thing that could oppose me and giving ear
to every story that was told them without foundation or
enquiry, I must greatly attribute what has happened, flattering,
themselves that if they could but get me removed, their frauds
could not be detected . . .
" Shortly after your leaving Madras, the old Investment
being at an end, a new one was to commence, when I proposed,
as the most effectual means of making the Merchants fulfill
their future contracts, a penalty of 10 per cent, on failure. This
the Merchants consenting to, a few days after were called to
execute them ; but instead of complying, not only refused
doing of it, but denied having agreed to any such thing. As a
letter had been wrote to the Presidency immediately on our
engagement, I was under the necessity of representing this
behaviour, when the Merchants were directly ordered up to
(1) Margaret Aurora Munro, younger daughter of Dr. Munro. She married her
cousin George Smith in 1769.
(2) Robert Duncan Munro, son of Dr. Munro, was a Madras civil servant of 17(35.
He married Elizabeth Williamson in 1782.
(3) John OaUaud, a civU servant of 1751, was Chief at Ouddalore in 17(i7, when
he was suspended.
No. 34] 56
Madras. But previous to their setting out, Mr. Dowsett'i' ggnt
for Irshapah Chitty, the leading man of the whole and asked
him what he had done to me to occasion my being so inveterate
as to occasion my writing to Mr. Bourchier in particular
against him, to take away his Palankeen and turn him out of
the contract. This had the effect which was expected and
desired of enraging this man against me, and by that means
the others from his influence over them."
Dowsett having obtained leave, hurried to Madras to repre-
sent to Mr. Bourchier that Irsappa Chetti was the cause of
the trouble. When the Merchants arrived " the Governor
was of course extreamly angry with them, but in particular
with this Irshapah Chitty, and laid the whole blame on him for
the trouble they had given. This confirmed him in what had
been so falsely told him, and fearing the disgrace of having his
Palankeen taken from him and turned out of the contract,
and the others, not knowing what might happen to them,
thought it advisable to fall on some method to appease the
Governor's anger, and of course made their application to
Narrain Pillah and Chocapah Chitty'^) ... as having the ear
of Mr. Pybus . . . What with preparations for the expedition
to Golcondah and other matters, the Merchants continued for
six weeks, if not longer, at Madras without anything further
passing ; which gave them all the time they could wish in
preparing and making good their story, and visiting Mr. Dowsett,
who was all this time there with them, daily."
Eventually the Merchants were received by the Governor
and Mr. Pybus, and directed to submit their complaints in
writing. At the next Council meeting four of them handed in
petitions, which were entered in the proceedings ; the remaining
three said they had no cause of complaint. I was then ordered
to Madras. " On my arrival I visited the Governor, who
received me as he had always done and . . . with the same deceit,
his tongue saying one thing and his heart another. However,
from the favourable reception I met with I freely told him
every thing . . . expressing my astonishment that any com-
plaint whatever should be made against me by these people,
as I had never given them any cause that I knew of, or ever
heard they were dissatisfied. From the Governor I went to
Mr. Pybus to pay my compliments, who, instead of receiving
me with even common politeness or civility due to a stranger,
absolutely insulted and abused me, comparing me to Governor
Macraey,'^' and telling me that if what the merchants alledged
against me was true, and which he made not the le[a]st doubt
of, I ought to be dismissed the service with infamy (for these
were his very words and expressions). . . .
(1) Robert Dowsett, who entered the Madras civil service in 1754-, was 2nd in
the Cuddalore Council in 1767.
(2) Narayan Pillai and Cliokappa Chetti, Madras Merchants for the Company.
(3) James Macrae, Governor of Madras 1725-30, was, on his supersession, charged
by certain natives with tyranny and acceptance of bribes. (Madras Consultation,
2nd June, 1730.) The charges appear to have been unfounded.
57 [No. 34
" Some days after my arrival the petitions were sent me by
the Secretary (another advocate for the cause by his connexion
with Dowsett and Cuming'^)) to answer . which I did accord-
ingly ; but foreseeing . . that I should have the worst of it . . .
I went frequently and brea]s;fasted with Mr. Bourchier, and
desired him to accommodate the matter, since it must hurt me
at any rate if such a thing appeared on record. But all was to
no purpose. His answer was, that as it was now in every one's
mouth, the only way was to go through with it . . .
" It's unnecessary to repeat what are in the proceedings, as
I have sent them to Colonel Campbell with direction to get
them drawn out in another manner, and to make the whole
publick, since I not only think myself extreamly injured, but
there isn't a person in the Settlement acquainted with the service
but thinks so too." Suffice it to say that I hope you will use
your influence with the Court of Directors on my behalf.
" Though I intend to proceed to England, 'tis not by choice,
but necessity that obliges me to it, and therefore shall perhaps
be glad to return again if I can do it with credit ..."
" John Calland."
{Holograph, 8 pp., Uo.]
[No. 35.]
MooPEEALA Kistnia'-' and Rama Kisna to Robert Palk,
Esqr.
1767, November 4th, Fort St. George. (Received per Hector,
22nd April, 1768.) — " Sir, We had the pleasure of addressing
you per Anson, and the duplicate of which went per Pigot,
whereby you would have been fully informed about the Beetle
and Tobacco farm is end[ed] to us soon after your departure . . .
" Old Kistnia hinted to you several times that after your
government this poor country and the inhabitants would not
be so happay and quiet as during your time. Just it has
happened accordingly, every body wishing for your goodness
and care that lived in peace with all the Powers of the country ;
whereas lately a small body of the enemy's horse rode up to the
Governor's Garden House, i^) burning and destroying all that
came in their way.'*' Number[s] of poor innocent people from
St. Thome, the Mount, Conjeveram and other places were
killed, wounded and carried into captivity without one soul
going to their defence, which has occasioned such a general
consternation in our Black Town that most of the inhabitants
(1) William Cuming, a civil servant of 1760, was at Cuddalore in 1767.
(2) Vide No. 16, p. 19, note 4.
(3) The Governor's (or Company's) Garden house vpas situated one mile 8.\\'. of
the Port. It is now Government House, Madras.
(*) This raid on the suburbs was made on the 28th and 2Hth September by about
3,000 of Haidar's cavalry. Madras being denuded of troops, the civil servants
and other Europeans, as well as the Portuguese and Armenian residents, were
armed for the defence of the Fort and Town {Madras Letters to England, 8th Oct.,
1767).
No. 35.] 58
have sent out their familys to places of security, which is a
great hinderance to all trade and business. God send us peace
and queetness, for otherwise the poor country will be entirely
ruined.
" It will give us great pleasure to hear of your safe arrival
in England, and that you and Mrs. Palk and General Lawrence
enjoy a good health, to whom please to present our most humble
respects ..."
" MOOPERALA KiSTNIA
" Rama Kisna."
{Holograph of Rama Kisna, 3- pp., 4to.]
[No. 36.]
Nawab Walajah to General [Stringer] Lawrence.
" Nabob Waulau Jau, Ummeer Hind, Umdetul Molck,
Seerajah Dowla, Anaverden Cawn Behauder, Munsoor Jung,
Sepoy Sardar,
to
" Shum Sool Mulk, Hisamood dowla. General Lawrence,
Behauder, Hous Bur Jung."
1767, November 5th, Fort St. George. — " Sir, The Company's
ship Hector being now under dispatch for England, I embrace
with pleasure the opportunity of enquiring after your welfare,
as well as to acquaint you of the receipt of your letter, with the
tellescope which you was so extreemly good as to get repaired
for me. I return you many thanks for the great care you
have taken of it.
" I am sorry to acquaint you that the house and furniture
you was so kind [as] to leave me at the Mount was plundered
by our enemy, and particularly the cot you used to sleep upon
and the diamond cut globe were entirely destroyed. The loss
of these two articles gives me great concern ; but as this is a
subject of which you will hear of from some of your friends,
excuse me from mentioning [it] any further.
" Believe me I shall be ever ready of embracing every oppor-
tunity that presents itself of serving you, as I shall be ever
sensible of the many great obligations I lay under to you. Give
me [leave] to conclude. Sir, by saying I am and ever shall be
your sincere friend. What can I say more ? "
[2i pp., Uo.-\
[No. 37.]
The Young Nawab(i) to General [Stringer] Lawrence.
1767, November 5th, Fort St. George. — " Sir, My father by
this conveyance does himself the pleasure of writing to you.
" I have received your letter, and am glad to hear of your
safe arrival in England, and hope your native air agrees with
[yo^]-
(1) Amir-ul-Umara, Walajah's second and favourite son.
59 [No. 37
" Wishing you every joy this life affords, I remain, Sir, your
sincere friend ever to command. What can I say more ?
[P.S.] " My two brothers'!' present their respects to you."
[1 p., Uo.\
[No. 38.]
Rob[er]t Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.
1767, November 15th, Spring Gardens. (Received 8th May,
1768, per Watson.) — " Dear Goodlad, By the ships lately arrived
I have received two letters from you which gave me much
satisfaction. I shall always expect and I shall always be glad
to hear from you, as I take great part in your success and
prosperity.
" I saw Mrs. and Miss Goodlad yesterday, and was happy
to find your mother's health so well reestablished. She men-
tioned to me her intention of remitting you one thousand
pounds, and I promised to give a bill for that sum whenever
it was convenient to her.
" I am settled in a town house at least for three years, and
whenever any thing offers to my likeing, I shall make a purchase
in the country ; for in this very expensive land it becomes
necessary to get into a settled way of life as soon as possible.
" Capt. Martin has left a fine family, and in good time I hope
we shall be able to send you one of them. We are selling out
the India stock ; by the present price the estate will be benefited
upwards of two thousand pounds.
" I have been well received both by His Majesty and the
Company. Mrs. Palk and the children are well, and I expect
soon to have an addition to the family.
" So many gentlemen returning to the Council will not be
very acceptable at Madras. Mackay's bar<2) was also intended
to be taken off, but that is dropt, for the present at least. Lord
Chve has exerted himself for Mr. Call, but Mr. Dupre has carried
it.'^' Annual salaries are settled on the Governor and Council
of Bengal, and perhaps at Madras. No European is to trade in
salt, &c., and the Governor of Bengal is not to trade at all.
Such regulations as these, however, cannot be lasting.
" I have endeavoured to get you Coral consignments, but
with no success I fear. Tell Mr. Johnson!*' that I am sorry to
say that all my interest, with Lord Clive's added to it, cannot
get my nephewl^' out a writer. I hope, however, we shall be
more successful after the departure of the Watson. I am, dear
Goodlad, your affectionate and sincere friend,
"RoBT. Palk."
" Mrs. Palk sends you her best wishes."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4io.]
(1) Umdat-ul-Uinara, Walajah's eldest son, and Saif-ul-Mulk.
(2) George Mackay was barred by the conditions of his admission to Council
from rising above the position of junior member.
(3) The Directors determined that Du Pr(5 should supersede Call in Council.
(*) James Johnson, vide No. 28, p. 45, note 7.
(5) Thomas Palk, son of Governor Palk's brother Walter.
60
[No. 39.]
[To the Editor] " For the Morning Chronicle."
N.D. [?1767] — " You are desired to assure the writer off a
false and scandalous letter in your paper oft yesterday, addrest
too L. S. Esq.'i' and signed Pericles, that fame was never more
mistaken than in what is alledged concerning 10,000 being given
too procure a Government for a gentleman formerly in the
Church. The appointment at that time met the general appro-
bation. He had been long in the service, and without ever
applying by himself or freinds too any Director had been made
a member off the Select Committee, and had been ordered the
publick thanks off the Company and a present as a mark oft
their approbation near the same time that General Laurance
and Lord Clive had been rewarded and distinguisht.
" Mr. Palk almost at the commencement oft the war on the
coast of Caromandel had been deputed with General Laurance
too consert measures for its success with the powers from whome
assistance was expected, the Misoreans, Marattas, Tanjorins,
Maravars, &c. He was in several eampains with General
Laurance, and in consert with him formed those military regu-
lations which have effectually almost ever since kept down the
great expence off the army on the coast of Caromandel. He
kept the Rajah off Tanjour in freindship and alliance with the
Nabob. He had the honour of being appointed too meet the
French deputies at the congress held at Sadrass in the time of
Mr. Dupleix, when with the assistance of Mr. Vansittart a
forgery was discovered in the Mogul's saned.'^> He was also
deputed to conculde \sic'\ the truce with Mr. Godeheu, and his
appointment to succeed Lord Pigot was never sohcited on his
part : it was freely and graciously offered, and given without
fee or reward."
[2 pp., 4to.]
[Note. The foregoing eccentrically spelt letter is written by
an unknown hand. It is endorsed in a different handwriting
" Mr. Palk's services." The file of the Morning Chronicle
preserved in the British Museum is incomplete, and neither
the letter signed Pericles nor this reply can be traced.]
[No. 40.]
Robert Palk, to [(?)Thomas Saunders.]
[Endorsed in Palk's hand] " War with Hyder Aly. Draft
of a letter to Mr. S."(3)
N.D. [dr. 1767.] — " Dear Sir, It having been said that the
treaty <*' with Nizam Aly was the cause of the present war with
(1) Laurence Sulivan, who was Chairman o£ the Court of Directors when Palk
became Governor in November, 1763.
(2) Saned, Ar. sanad, a deed of grant.
(3) Mr. S. was probably either Thomas Saunders or Laurence Sulivan.
Saunders is the more likely, as he was Deputy Chairman of the Court of Directors
in 1767, while Sulivan was not on the Directorate.
(4) The Treaty of 1766, negotiated by Caillaud.
61 [No. 40
Hyder Aly, which it was intended to prevent, I shall give you
very briefly my sentiments on this subject, from memory and
recollection only, as my papers are in town.
" When I took possession of the Government in 1763 after
an unsuccessful attack on Madura, I saw the necessity of keeping
on good terms with Hyder Aly, not only as he was grown very
powerful, but that he might not intermeddle in the troubles
caused by Cawn Saib ; 'D and in this I succeeded so well that I
doubted not of keeping the peace between the Nabob and him,
till the surrender of Madura, when many of his letters of
encouragement and promises of assistance were found amongst
the papers of Cawn Sahib ; on which I remonstrated to the
Vaquil, who assured me his master would in future alter his
conduct and by our means hope to live in peace with the Nabob,
with whom however he did not correspond. At this time Hyder
Aly was attacked by the Marattas, and after several obstinate
engagements obliged them to retire from the Misore country.
Immediately after this he reduced the province of Shirpi'^) and
a part of Cvu-rapah, and the Nabob of the former with the
principal men took refuge with Mahomet Aly.'^) I endeavoured
often to prevail on him to send them away, and he promised
they should be carried to Mecca, though Hyder Aly had given
like protection to Chunda Saib's son '** and many others who
had been rebels to his government ; and after that Mauphus
Cawn, the elder brother of our Nabob, under the pretence of
going over land to Bombay and proceeding from thence to
Mecca, took shelter with the Misore Usurper.
" In this manner things went on till the French arrived and
Hyder Aly had sufficiently alarmed the Gentlemen of Bombay,
reduced the whole Malabar Coast from Sunda, east of Goa,
to Travencore and enriched his treasury with the immense wealth
of Bidnoor.'^' He then came round in the rainy season to the
neighbourhood of Caroor, west of Trichenopoly, and finding
that place too strong to be carried by a sudden attack, he
desisted from that enterprize ; but he spread so much
disaffection by sending Mauphus Cawn'^' toward the Madura and
(1) Muhammad Yusuf Khan, commonly known as " Cawn Saib," attracted
notice in 1752 by his gallant behaviour under Captain Dalton at Utatur. In 1754
he received a commission as Commandant of the Company's native troops, and he
did good service with the field force during the siege of Madras in 1758-59. He
subsequently became Renter in the Southern districts, and the power he wielded
tempted him to aim at Independence. Obtaining French assistance, he fortified
himself in Madura, where he was besieged by Donald Campbell in 1763 and Charles
Campbell in 1764. The place ultimately capitulated after a protracted defence.
Yusuf Khan was delivered up by M. Marchand and was executed as a rebel.
(2) Sira or Sirpi. Vide No. 19, p. 23, note 7.
(3) Muhammad Ali Khan, Nawah of Arcot and the Carnatic, who received the
title Walajah in 1765.
(*) Chanda Sahib had been supported by the French in his claim to be ruler of
the'Camatic in opposition to Muhammad Ali, who was backed by the British.
Chanda Sahib fell into the hands of the Tanjore general in 1752 and was beheaded,
but he left a son, Eaza Sahib, who was naturally regarded with disfavour by the
Nawab.
(6) Bednur. Vide No. 30, p. 49, note 2.
(6) Mahfuz Khan, elder brother of Nawab Muhammad Ali.
No. 40] 62
Tinnavilly Polligars that those very large districts scarce paid
the expence of the troops we were obliged to keep there. I
should before have said that Caroor had been taken from the
Misorians when they endeavoured to relieve Pondichery, and
though frequently demanded, nobody judged it ought to
be ceded, especially as Dindagul, which formerly belonged to
Triehenopoly, had been added to the Misore Government.
" The French were now at Pondichery and the great number
of prisoners from Triehenopoly and Madras dehvered up to
them, unable to pay them or willing to create troubles and
encourage their old ally Hyder Aly, they suffered their officers
and men to desert to him ; and when the Nabob remonstrated
against so suspicious a conduct they said Pondichery was open,
and therefore not in their power to prevent desertion.
" In 1765, after Nizam Aly's disgraceful attempt on the
Arcot Province, and demanding 17 years' tribute, great court
was paid to him by Hyder Aly, Mauphus Cawn sent to Hidrabad,
and a saned obtained for the Carnateck.
" It now became necessary to set on foot a negotiation with
Hyder Aly, to which we were the more encouraged as we had
all along to all appearance kept on very good terms with him.
I therefore prevailed on the Vakil to make the proposal
as from himself; and it was determined that Mr. James
Bourchier, one of our Council, should be deputed to him, and
he accordingly set out with proper instructions and presents with
the Vaquil, who was to meet his master on the other side of
the hills and advise Mr. Bourchier at Velloor of the place of
interview. But after waiting an unreasonable time he returned,
and Hyder, having changed his mind, gave in excuse that
troubles on the Malabar coast called for his immediate presence.
The Vaquil confessed to me that his master and his Dirbar'^)
were so intoxicated with their success that they seemed to
think even the Europeans could not stop their career.
" In this situation I prevailed on the Nabob to send a trusty
person to Nizam Aly to insinuate to him the bad consequences
which would attend the seat of the Dekkan Government from
our neighb^^urhood in the Circars if he persisted in encouraging
Hyder Aly, and this messenger had instructions on the part
of the Nabob and us to establish harmony and a good under-
standing ; but Nizam Aly was so much exasperated against
the Nabob that he would not listen to any proposals. I was,
however, at the same time acquainted that if I applyed for a
gentleman of our own to come, he should be furnished with a
passport.
" Accordingly General Caillaud went and concluded the
treaty'^' which gave us quiet possession of the Circars and,
what we judged of equal consequence, an easy method of putting
(1) Dirhar, durbar, ministers, Court, hall of audience, lev^e : from Pers. dar-bar,
within the court-yard.
(2) The Treaty of Hyderabad of 12th November, 1766.
63 [No. 40:
an end to the views of Hyder Aly on the Carnateck, without
making ourselves principals, by obliging him to pay his long
arrears of tribute to Nizam Aly, to confine himself within the
bounds of the antient kingdom of Misore and to leave the Nabob
in possession of the passes, which it was our intention, as well
as the Company's orders, to take possession of as soon as
possible, but which would never be done without coming to
hostilities, most of them having been formerly surprized by
Hyder Aly ; and without these it was in the power of every
petty Polligar to disturb the peace of the Nabob's country from
Tinnavilly to Cadapa, a length of 700 miles.
" Many unforeseen accidents happened to prevent the speedy
success of this expedition, which was intended to be undertaken
with all possible dispatch, and it was reasonably imagined that
20,000 horse of Nizam Aly's joined to [a] reasonable body of
our Europeans and sepoys, with a good train of artillery, would
in a few months happily finish the expedition ; but unfortunately
Nizam Aly was so tedious and dilatory in joining that when [he]
entered the hills which divide the Carnateck and the Misore
country, it was almost time to return to sa\'e his passage over
the Christna ; and the rains soon coming on, in which the army
could not act effectually, the want of subsistence and pay for.
his troops induced him through necessity to change sides and
accept the offers of Hyder Aly ; though the army in the Circars
soon made him repent of that measure so contrary to treaty
and his own true interest."
[Holograph, 5 pp.. Mo.]
[Note. The above draft letter is in Palk's handwriting, but
is unsigned.]
[No. 41.]
[Memorandum by Laurence Sulivan.]
N.D. [1767, July— December.]— " Governor Palk to apply
to the following : — General Calliaud ; <i) Mr. Pechell and friends;
T. and C. Brett, Esqs., and friends ; the Vaughans ; A. Chorley ;
E. Mason ; R. Home, &c., formerly qualified ; Mr. Pybus,
when he comes ; f^' the Boscawen familly ; Mrs. Boscawenf^)
kindly quahfied as well [as] Mrs. Judy Levy at her desire ;
Colonel Charles Campbell!*) and friends ; R. Fairfieldi^) and
(1) General John Caillaud. Vide Nc. 73, p. 102, note 1.
(2) John Pybus was expected to arrive about April 1768. {Cf. No. 30, p. 51).
(3) Prances, widow of Admiral the Hon. E. Boscawen.
(*) Colonel Charles Campbell, brother of Colonel Donald Campbell, served as
Captain with the Madras European Regiment in 1758. As Major he successfully
conducted the second siege of Madura in 1764. In the two following years Colonel
Campbell commanded the force acting against the Poligars north of Trichlnopoly.
He wrote a journal of his operations, which is preserved among the Orme MSS.
(5) Richard Fairfield entered the Madras civil service in 1746. In 1758 he was
one of the signatories to the articles of capitulation of Port St. David, and in the
following year was a Councillor at Port St. George,
No. 41[ 64
friends ; Captain Kilpatrick and friends ; R. Starke-'D and
friends ; A. Preston and friends ; Mr. Line ; Mr. Lind ;
Cotsford deceased, his stock to be transferred and made a
vote ; Vantellingen to buy largely ; Rev. Erasmus Sanders ;
Sir Harry and George Bridgemani^) through Mrs. Martin ;
Mr. Palk and Mr. Brett's bankers to be made a point — they
can do much.
" Van'^i has several memorandums in which Mr. Palk can
greatly assist, particularly with J. Boyd<*) and Mr. Somner."
[Holograph, 1 p., Svo.]
[Note. The above memorandum is in the handwriting of
Laurence Suhvan, but is unsigned. It names friends of Palk
who were qualified (by the possession of not less than £500 of
India stock) to vote for candidates for the Directorate.]
[No. 42.]
Captain T[homas] Madge to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, February 20th, Camp near Combammett. — " Sir, The
permission you were pleased to indulge me with, at taking my
leave of you at Madrass, of writing you by every opportunity
emboldens me to embrace this first opportunity since you left
India " ; for sailings have hitherto been notified too late to
permit of my writing, " owing to the great distance I was at
these times from any of our Settlements.
" I am sorry to acquaint you that the command of the troops
stationed in the Circars, which you procured the promise of
my being appointed to, never took place, as notwithstanding . .
the assurances made you by those who had it in their power . .
you were no sooner out of sight of Madrass than an entire
alteration in their measures occasioned me no longer to hope
for any favor from those I had been recommended to . . .
Indeed I met with some difficulty at Masulipatam in getting
Mr. Palki^' appointed to my battalion, which I could not effect
till I wrote Mr. Bourchier on the occasion.
" As soon as I found my disappointment certain by the
Governor's declaring the command in the Circars was never
intended for me, I wrote my friend Mr. Pybus on the occasion,
desiring him to acquaint you in his next letters that this contempt
of your recommendation had not been owing to my misconduct.
At the same time I desired him to procure a conveyance for a
(1' Richard Starke, a Madras civil servant of 1735, was Deputy Governor of
Port St. George for a short period in 1752, and thereafter Deputy Governor of Fort
St. David until 1756, when he resigned the service.
(2) Sir Henry Bridgeman, Bt., was created Baron Bradford. His brother George
died in December 1767. The date of Laurence Sulivan's Memorandum must
therefore lie between the 13th July, 1767, when PaUc arrived in England, and the
end of the year.
(3) Henry Vansittart.
(*) John Boyd, formerly a Director.
(5) Lieut. Thomas Palk, a kinsman of Governor Palk (probably grandson of
an uncle of the latter), not to be confused with Thomas Palk, son of Walter Palk
and nephew of Governor Palk.
65 [No. 42.
box of china, which I had wrote to my Unkle to send me from
China, as a present for my old friend Colonel Monson,(i) and
which I assumed the liberty to desire might be directed to your
care in England . . . But he never vouchsafed to send me
an answer till within a day or two of his leaving the country.
This neglect of his prevented my sending you a letter with the
box . . .
" About a month after my return from Madrass, on the troops
designed for the Hydrabad service leaving the Circars, I was
sent up to the Chicacole province with a small detachment to
assist the newly appointed Renter in .plundering the country,
for his method of collecting the revenues could be construed in
no other light. As a particular favor I was allowed to take
Mr. Palk with me, which I thought more for his interest than if
he remained at EUour, as the morals of most of the officers left
in the Circars were such as would not have improved his by
following their example. I did not find the Chief of Masuli-
patam'^' was willing to do any thing for him, as he would not
consent to his having the command at Condapillee, though it
was garrisoned only by a part of my battalion, and the other
lieutenant chose to be with me in the field.
" The impropriety in the choice of the Chicacole Renter for
the last year surprised every body, and gave the country powers
no very favorable opinion of the abilities or penetration of the
person who entrusted him with it, as after a great many frivolous
excuses for the non-performance of his engagements, his
intentions began to be suspected and Jague Pundat was sent up
to settle accounts with him. He left me to settle some affairs
in the Ichapour country, whither he said there was no necessity
for my attending him ; and on Juggo Pundat's arrival at my
camp he took care to amuse him with idle stories till he had
collected the revenues of the Circar. Which when he had
secured, under pretence of coming to settle his accounts with
Jague Pundat, he pursued a different rout through the hills and
threw himself into Vizianagaram, and put himself under the
protection of Sitteramrauze,'^) who had the insolence to insist
on being arbitrator in the dispute between the Company and
the Renter, which, I am almost ashamed to tell you, was tacitly
consented to.
" I left the Renter and Jague Pundat at Vizianagaram in
December last in dispute before the Raja, on my way to" join
the army intended to act in the Deckan ; since when I have
been informed that the Renter has compromised his affairs with
the Company at the expence of some individuals from whom
he has received large deductions, to make good which it is very
probable he will be again entrusted with the management of
the Circar !
(1) Vide No. 6, p. 12, note 2.
(2) John Lewin Smith.
(3) Sitaram Raz, Vide No. 19, p. 28, note 5.
No. 42.] 66
" As you will undoubtedly receive a better account of the
war with the Soubah and Hyder Ally in the Carnatic than I can
pretend to give you, I shall decline the task, and confine myself
to what has been doing in this part of the Deckan, which has
brought the Soubah to a proper way of thinking for himself,
as he pretends to be heartily tired of his alliance with Hyder
Ally, from whom he has withdrawn himself, and is now negotiat-
ing with the Council at Madrass for a new alliance, which, it is
reported, is nearly finished.
" At the commencement of the war in the Carnatic applica-
tion was made to the Presidency of Calcutta for a body of troops
to be sent to Masulipatam, who were to act against the Soubah
in the Deckan. Accordingly three battalions of Bengal seapoys
were landed at Vizagapatam in the month of October, and
notwithstanding the urgent necessity that appeared for their
immediate proceeding to Masulipatam, they could not be put
in motion till the month of December for want of conveniences
for transporting their stores and baggage, which I was obliged
to furnish them with at last from Chicacole.
" In December three companies of Bengal infantry arrived
at Masulipatam, with whom, and two companies of the Coast
infantry, some artillery, and my battalion of seapoys. Colonel
Hart<i' was ordered to take the field. I had been ordered from
Chicacole to go with the expedition as soon as it was concerted,
unless I preferred the command I then enjoyed ; but by a
private letter from the artfull Chief of Masulipatam I could
easily perceive he wished I would join the army, hinting as if
Colonel Hart was not equal to the command of so important
a service. Though the remaining at Chicacole was certainly
more to my advantage, I never hesitated a moment about
resigning it, and accordingly repaired to the army with Mr.
Palk, who I was allowed to bring with me from Chicacole.
On my arrival I found Mr. Smith had ordered Hart to appoint
me his Aid de Camp and Secretary ; and to add to the affront
I was actually put in orders without being consulted whether
or no I approved of the appointment.
" By representing to the Chief the impropriety of my acting
in the capacity of a staff officer whilst I remained second in
command, together with my resolution of acting as a private
officer, he acquiesced in my declining it ; when Hart offered
me to dispose of it to whom I pleased — a favor I had no right
to expect. I however procured it for Mr. Palk, who was
appointed accordingly.
" We marched the 10th of December from EUour towards
Combammett, the Phousdahri^) of which had bargained for
the surrender of the Fort and Circar with the Chief of Masuh-
(1) Simon Hart, who entered the Madras Army as Ensign in 1754, and, as
Captain accompanied Caillaud to Bengal in 1759. He was serving at
Trichinopoly in 1762.
(2) Phousdar, a magistrate, native governor, from Pers. faujdar, a, military
commander.
67 [No. 42.
patam some time before we took the field. But so indiscreet
was the Chief's conduct on the occasion that, had the Soubah
any troops at Hydrabad, we could not have taken it, as he
could have thrown in a sufficient force to have defended it
against all the troops in the Circars long before we could have
taken advantage of the disposition of the Phousdahr in our
favor. However, circumstances proved more lucky than we
had a right to expect, and we reached the place in time to secure
it, though a body of the Soubah's rabble had been assembled,
and on the march to dispossess the Phousdar of his charge.
They halted within twenty coss of the place on hearing we had
got possession of it, and as soon as we were joined by the Bengal
seapoys from Vizagapatam we advanced upon them and
came up with their main body, consisting of 4,000 horse and
foot, which had taken post under the walls of a small fort. They
made a few flourishes with their horse, but on our advanced
guard's attempting to close with them, they walked off in such
a hurry that we had not time to fire three shot from our field
pieces till they were out of sight, nor did they ever stay within
two days' march of us afterwards. A desperate sett of them
had thrown themselves into the fort, which they resolutely
defended for two hours, and did not surrender till I brought up
my battalion to the gateway, which we had nearly burst open
with our field pieces, when they threw down their arms.
" The resolute behaviour of our troops at this place so
intimidated the Zemindars, who were before assembling to stop
oiu- progress, that they all sent letters desiring our favor and
protection to the commanding officer. And we took possession
of the fort of Worrangele and the Circar which bears its name
without seeing the face of an enemy.
" The progress of our arms in the Deckan began to alarm the
Soubah, who never imagined we could bring an army into the
field against them from the Circars, from the accounts he had
received of our small force and the hopes of opposition to our
Government he had reason to flatter himself with from the
refractory Pollygars. But as soon as he found out his mistake,
he applied to Madrass for an accommodation, which has been
in some respects attended to, and we in consequence of it stopt
in our career, with the prospect of the plunder of Hydrabad
almost within grasp, without hopes of being allowed to make
use of the opportunity. We are now within 30 coss of the city,
and notwithstanding the Soubah's son'^' has been exerting his
utmost endeavours to persuade the Zemindars dependent on
his family to join him, he has not been able to collect together
above 5,000 bad horse and Sibbendy,*^' and these so badly paid
and provided, and at the same time so frightened, that we might
expect to find the place abandoned before we could come within
a day's march of it.
(1) Nawab Sikandar Jah, son and eventual successor of Nizam All.
(2) Sibbendy, from Hind, sibandi, irregular soldiery maintained for garrisons
and guards.
No. 42] 68
" Colonel Peach, (1) who joined the army the last month with
the Grenadiers and colours of his regiment and assumed the
command, seems greatly chagrined at our being ordered to halt,
as he had promised himself great things by prosecuting the war
with the Soubah. It is supposed, should peace be the conse-
quence of the present negotiation, that he will either be ordered
to join Colonel Smith in the Carnatic, or be immediately sent
back to Bengal by land ; when he may on his way call the famous
Narrain Dew'^' to account, who since I left his neighbourhood
has withdrawn his allegiance from the Company in consequence,
as he says, of the Soubah's positive orders, and has been for
some time raising contributions and laying waste the country.
" I am sincerely concerned to acquaint you with the death of
Captain Cranch,(^) who died some time in August last of the
gout at Trichanapoly, regretted by all who knew him. He left
a will amongst his papers, in which he has nominated me one
of his executors. The other two are officers of the late 79th
Regiment, and both in England. On receiving information
of his death I wrote to the officer commanding at Trichanopoly
(Major Flint) desiring him to send the will to my attorney at
Madrass that it might be proved in the Mayor's Court, and
attested copies of it taken for the satisfaction of his family. I
at the same time desired him to dispose of his effects, the amount
of which and other particulars of his estate as soon as collected
I will take the liberty to remit to you by the first opportunity,
as there appear some circumstances in his private connexions
as make me cautious of pay[ing] the legacies or disposing of his
estate lest it should give umbrage to his family, with whom I am
entirely unacquainted . . .
" Long ere this I flatter myself you are happily settled in
England, and experience in the society of your friends and the
frequent opportunities of doing good an adequate recompense
for the many years of business and fatigue you have known in
this country. And that health, content and every other blessing
requisite to perfect happiness may long attend you and Mrs.
Palk will always be the unfeigned wishes of. Sir, your much
obliged, faithful, humble servant,
[Holograph, Qj pp., 4to.] " T. Madge."
[No. 43.J
Rob[er]t Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.
[Endorsed] "Received 8th August, 1768, by the hand of
Mr. Helhng."
(1) Joseph Peach entered the Bengal Infantry as Major in 1764. Late in 1767
Colonel Peach conducted a force sent from Calcutta against the Nizam. Joining
Colonel Hart's detachment from the Oircars, he took command and approached
Hyderabad. Nizam Ali sued for peace, and Peach returned to Bengal, where he
died in 1770.
(2) Narayan Deo, insurgent zemindar of Kimedi, was attacked and defeated
by Colonel Peach near the fort of Jelmur in Ganjam in May, 1768.
(3) Lieut. Peter Cranch joined the Company's service from H.M's 79th (Draper's)
69 [No. 43.
1768, March 1st. — " Dear Goodlad, I thank you for your
letters since my departure, and I beg I may always hear from
you. Give, I desire you, my nephew Tom your advice and
assistance. I intended him for a Writer, but was refused.
" If you can help the bearer, Mr. Helling, to the command of,
or a birth in a country vessell, you will oblige a very capable
deserving man, and also your sincere and faithful friend,
[Holograph, 1 p., ito.] " Robt. Palk."
[No. 44.J
W[illiam] Aldersey(I) to RoBKRT Palk, Esqr.
1768, March 28th, Fort WiUiam.— " Dear Sir, I did myself
the pleasure of writing to you by Mr. Campbell,*^) who embarked
for England in the Europa, and cannot omit the last opportunity
I shall have this season of repeating my sincere acknowledgments
of your friendly offices in this part of the world.
" Under the care of Captain Riddle I have sent a parcel
directed to Mr. Phipps, in which is a piece of silver specked
muslin, which I hope Mrs. Palk will do me the favor to accept
of for her httle daughter,!^) whom I shall hope to salute in Old
England one of these days, though the prospect yet appears
at a distance.
" Since our last dispatch the Gentlemen at Madras have con-
cluded a treaty with Nizamally, and Hyderally has walked off
to his own country, the particulars of which you will no doubt
be fully informed of from that quarter. The situation of affairs
here has not undergone the least alteration since our last
advices.
" My best respects attend Mrs. Palk, General Lawrence and
General CaUlaud. I have already paid my compliments to
Mr. Vansittart this season, but request you will take the first
opportunity of repeating my acknowledgements for his many
favors. I am . .
" W. Aldebsey."
[Holograph, 2| pp., Mo.]
[No, 45.]
John Calland to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, April 25th, Fort St. George. — " Sir, It being the advice
and opinion of every one acquainted with the Cuddalore
Merchants' complaints against me, and the severe usage I have
met with in consequence, that I renew by all means my applica-
tion to you ... I beg leave to enclose you duplicate of my
letter per Hector, copies of the four petitions given in against
(1) William Aldersey, a Madras civil servant of 1754, served for several years
as Secretary in the Political Department. In 1766 he was transferred to Bengal,
and entered Council.
(2) Alexander Campbell. Vide No. 12, p. 15, note i.
(3) Anne Palk, born 1764.
No. 45.] 70
me, my answer thereto and refutation of the whole, which are
the material papers of the proceedings. The remaining part,
containing little more than the examination of the witnesses . . .
I have sent to Colonel Campbell, (^i who will shew them to you
if you will please to take the trouble of asking for them.
" As Mr. Saunders'^) will in all probabihty be Chairman when
this affair comes under consideration, I cannot avoid looking
upon it as the most propitious circumstance for me that could
happen ; being in the first place a man of sense and who has
a thorough Icnowledge of the service, and in the next that you
are intimately acquainted with him ; from which I hope the
complaints made against me will be so far mitigated that I shall
be restored, by their being looked upon ... as malicious and
ill-grounded, and merely in consequence of my imposing the
penalty of 10 per cent, on failure of contract, and thwarting the
ambition and evil practices of the most considerable Merchants,
but Irshapah Chitty and Moodo Kistna in particular . . .
" Had I robbed or defrauded the Company (as it" seems those
who were in Council with me are judged to have done), or had
the service in the le[a]st suffered, I should have thought myself
justly deserving the treatment I have received. But on the
contrary, did I not bring the Cuddalore Investment to fifteen
hundred bales, which was more by some hundreds than had been
got for many years before ? . . Besides, is there a man in the
service that can accuse me of ever wronging the Company the
value of a fanam, or not doing my duty in every office I have
been employed during the seventeen years of my servitude, which
brought me the next to Council ? . . .1 flatter myself you will
interest yourself so far in my behalf with Mr. Samiders as to get
justice done me and every prejudice removed by my re-instate-
ment . . . yet, should it happen otherwise, and the reward of
so many years' diligent and faithful services be cancelled . . .
I shall then think it incumbent on me to use those materials I
am possessed of in taking a laudable satisfaction of those men
who have so cruely injured me ... The materials I have got
I have neither spared money or trouble in procuring, and which
are such as, without ostentation or deceit, must inevitably ruin
Mr. Pybus, and give such an insight into things as will hurt
the servants in general.
" Mr. Bourchier, I hear, accuses me of using him ill and being
ungrateful. But sure, not upon reflection ? Let any one read
my letter to him of the 23rd March, and the Merchants' to me
a month afterwards, and be told the repeated sollicitations I
made him to compromise the affair, to no purpose ; and then
judge of the reason he has for saying so, and if I have not had
sufficient cause and provocation for every thing I have said and
ten times as much more. Words are nothing. 'Tis the actions
of a man that another is to judge by, either of his friendship or
(1) Colonel Charles Campbell, ride No. il, p. 63, note i.
(2) Thomas Saunders was Deputy Chairman in 1707, but did not succeed to
the Chair in the following year.
ri [No. 45.
sincerity ... I hope for my own sake, as well as the invidious
Mr. Pybus's, and in "short every other person connected with
the service, that you will use your influence with Mr. Saunders
and others so as to make further proceedings unnecessary. . .
" John Calland."
[Holograph, 7 pp., 4to.J
[No. 46.]
T. Orton(I) to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
1768, April 28th, VeUoor.— " Sir ... A few months after your
departure I experienced my loss, and to speak with confidence
to you, a very rash effort was made to ruin me. It may suffice
to say I am sorry the country could afford such a glaring instance
of credulity on one hand and malice on the other. It consisted
of a letter from Colonel Smith at camp to the Board in the most
aggravated terms of complaint ' that were an abominable
shame and ought to be rectified,' which evidently appeared
to have so httle foundation that I acquired credit instead of
the intended infamy.
" Mrs. Orton came up here directly after you embarkt and
has remained here ever since ... If any oppertunity offers, I
beg leave to request your favorable mention of me to any
gentleman coming out, where you may think it proper. . .
"T. Orton."
[Holograph, 2f pp., 4to.J
[No. 47.]
James Bourchier to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1768, May 2nd, Madrass. — " Your favor, my dear Mr. Palk,
from St. Hellena, contrary to your expectation, reached me
in November before we could have any intelligence of your safe
arrival in England, nor have we yet any further tidings of you ;
but I will hope you are there, and happy to the extent of your
wishes. Your friend poor Charles'^' has had a very troublesome
government almost ever since you left him in it : this
confounded war has kept his hands full and his spirits harrassed,
yet fortunately he has enjoyed great health. As I presume
Call, whose genious lies in political narrative, has given you
every particular of what has happened and what is to be
expected, I will not touch on the subject. He with Mackay*^'
are gone as Field Deputies to assist the Nabob and Colonel Smith
with their comisel, and I hope by a vigorous and spirited effort
we shall subdue the Hydra.
" The Gentlemen of Bengal, notwithstanding their boasted
promises of an exertion of their assistance, have failed in the
(1) T. Orton has not been traced. Captain Roderick Orton was tried by court
martial in 1769 and cashiered for yielding the fort of Erode to Haidar in the
preceding December.
(2) Charles Bourchier.
(3) George Maokay. Cf. No. 13, f. 17, note 3.
No. 47.] 72
most essential point of mony, which will, I fear, force us to
break in upon the China stock. However, nothing must now
be spared to put an end to this war. If we succeed (as we have
all the reason in the world to expect) in the down fall of Hyder
Naigue, we shall secure stability to the Company's possessions
on this and the Mulabar Coast, and root out a power, the only
one indeed that could afford our neighbors (the French) any
support in case of a rupture between our nations — an object
in my opinion of the first importance. By the reports we have,
and indeed they themselves confirm, they are collecting and
disciplining a large body of troops at the Islands, (i) which,
depend upon it, they will augment by every vessell they can
steal out thither. It therefore behoves the Honourable Twenty
four! 2) to keep a very watchful eye on them, and to give us early
intelligence of the first likelihood of trouble, as well as secure,
by the Piscash they are to pay the Government, a formidable
naval force to preserve to us the command of the seas. In that
case they will put it in our power to divest the gentry of all
they possess here ere they can be reinforced or even in a
condition of defence.
" Most probably I shall leave India ere there can be a war,
yet I shall ever retain that attachment to the service, and
Madrass in particular, as to wish the utmost success to their
affairs. You will know our situation, my dear Mr. Palk, and
the precautions that ought to be taken to preserve the well
being of the Company abroad, and I make no doubt will give
them every useful light that can tend to that desireable end. '
It's to be hoped the Company will earnestly endeavor to keep
complete our military establishment. This has been a fatal
season to many valuable young officers as well as the private
men ; it's therefore the more necessary we should be amply
supply ed with recruits.
" Our society of males continues much the same as when
you left us, except the loss of poor Griffiths,'^) who dyed after
a long fit of illness the latter end of last month, much lamented
by those who were intimately acquainted with him. Thomas'*'
and Stonei^' are his executors, who will do the greatest justice
to his estate. George Stratton'^) is married to a Miss Light'''
that came out on one of the latter ships of last year : — you may
remember a brother'^' of hers that came out a Writer the season
'1' The Isles of Prance and Bourbon (Mauritius and Reunion).
(21 -The twenty-four Directors of the East India Company.
'3) The Rev. Charles GriflBths arrived in India as chaplain to the 79th Regiment,
and entered the Company's service in 1762. He died 25th April, 1768, when
chaplain at Port St. George.
(*) The Rev. John Thomas, chaplain.
(6) John Maxwell Stone. Vide No. 29, p. 46, note i.
'6) George Stratton, a Madras civil servant of 1751, entered the Council in 1764.
In 1776 he subverted the Government of Lord Pigot, and was recalled to England
in the following year.
C' Hester Eleanora Light.
(8) William Light, appointed to Madras as Writer in 1766.
73 [No. 47.
before you went home. And Alexander Davidson, (i) when he
quitted the sub accountantship, asked leave to go to Bengal to
establish a correspondence and of course to commence merchant,
is returned with a wife, a Miss Pigou, you may remember
formerly under the patronage of Phebe Graham. How he
succeeded in the first scheme I have not heard. Pasley,!^'
Briggs(3) and the two secretaries'*) are very jolly, and hold you in
grateful remembrance. I have given Mrs. Palk an account of
all the females, so I shall refer you to her for particulars. Adieu,
my dear Mr. Palk. BeUeve me, with all the gratitude a heart
susceptible of the nicest feelings can possess, your ever
affectionate Jim."
[Holograph, 3f pp-' 4*^.]
[No. 48.]
George Smith to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, May 7th, Fort St. George.—" Sir, I did myself the
pleasm-e of addressing you by the Hector,^^> informing you of
the safe arrival of the Sultanissa Begam at this port the 20th
of September, and of her being sent to Bengal," whence she
proceeded to Bombay. The difficulty of remitting your money
has been increased by the formation of an Association of
diamond buyers, and " Gocull and Nellacuntaker, though they
had promised me as far back as October last to take from me
each the sum of 5,000 pagodas at Respondentia on diamonds
security, have broke through their promise in consequence of
the above combination. Thus circumstanced, and no other
channel but the Company's cash at 7s. 4d. open, what can I
do ? I must have recourse to your good nature and friendship
for a fluther credit . . .
" I have given Mr. Morse a statement of your moneys in
China," which I hope to be able to remit shortly, as " the silver
of this country begins to be pretty well drained, and moreover
the call for money here will soon be so great that the Company's
cash in Canton must again be opened ....
" By this ship comes a copy of a letter from the Governor
of Manila to the Nabob, by which it plainly appears that what
<1' Alexander Davidson joined the Madras civil service in 1760, and became a
member of Council in 1777. He was provisional Governor of Port St. George from
1785 to 1786.
(2) Dr. Gilbert Pasley came to India with Adlercron's Regiment in 1754, and
subsequently joined the Company's medical service. In 1761 he was transferred
from the army to civil duty at the Presidency, where he remained until his death
twenty years later. He married Hannah Dashwood in 1778, and was appointed
Surgeon General in 1780. According to an obituary notice in Hicky's Bengal
Gazette, Pasley came out originally in the Artillery, " but soon exchanged the
sword, spunge, worm and ramrod for the lancet, gold headed cane and snuff
box."
(3) Dr. Stephen Briggs was Surgeon General with the Army when he was sum-
moned in 1763 to serve at Fort St. George. In 1770 he was senior Presidency
Surgeon.
(*) John Maxwell Stone and William Martin Goodlad.
(6) Vide No. 33, p. 53.
No. 48.] 74
was done to me proceeded from suspicions of English property-
being under my management, and that the like treatment is
menaced to any ship in the same circumstances with the Sulta-
nissa : from which it is evident that the Company should fall
on some mode of securing the Manila trade from insult and even
confiscation, or they must soon export bullion from Europe,
which they will not for some time, I imagine, find convenient.
'' I refer you to your other friends here for a detail of the war,
the peace with the Nizam, and the present operations against
Hyder Ally : they will be better able to inform you of these
series of events than I can possibly do.
" Mrs. Munro(i> desires her compliments to you and Mrs.
Palk, and she hopes you have been so kind as to send out her
daughter'^) by the ships of this season. . . .
" George Smith."
[Holograph, 5 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 49.]
T[homas] Palk'^' to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1768, May 7th [at Sea.] — " My dear Sir, I now set down to
write to all my particular friends. The man at the mast head
spys land, where he has been to look out for a ship. We are
now steering round the Cape, without the wind alters its point,
and if it does, we shall certainly put into the Cape. I shall
first begin to write to you, as I imagine we shall meet with some
ship or other, for I would not miss any opportunity whatever
of writing my friends an account of my hea[l]th and welfare.
We sailed from the Downs the 31st January, and after a trouble-
some passage of about three weeks, we made Tenariffe, from
whence I wrote to you by a Dutch man that was first going to
Cadiz and from thence to England. . . I can only mention one
or two particulars. By the rolling I met with a terrible fall,
that occasion[ed] me the head[ache] for several days afterwards,
which I have felt since three weeks most severely. Several
days together we were obliged to set on the deck to dine. You
may easily judge. Sir, how great the motion was, but we have
felt no such weather since, nor never do I desire to again.
" At our landing at Teneriffe Mr. Wynch <*> went to his
(1' Frances Mary, widow of Dr. Andrew Muuro.
(2) Margaret Aurora Muuro.
!3' Thomas Palk, son of Walter Palk and nephew of Governor Palk, arrived in
the Button in 1768 and entered the Madras Army, but was subsequently transferred
to the civil service. He must not be confounded with his remote cousin, Lieut.
Thomas Palk, who was serving in the Northern Clrcars. ^
(*) Alexander Wynch was entertained locally in 1734 as an unpaid assistant
at Madras, and afterwards as a monthly writer, but was not brought on the civil list
until 1740. In 1744 he was a Councillor at Port St. David, and in 1758, when that
fort yielded to the French, he was ofaciating as Deputy Governor. Wynch 'was
made a prisoner of war, and he subsequently resigned the service and went 'to
England. In 1768 he was reappointed and ([nominated Chief at Masulipatam.
He was Governor of Fort St. George from 1773 to 1775, and retired to England
after Lord Pigot's arrival. He married first Sophia Croke, and secondly in 1754
Florentia Cradock. He died in London in 1781.
75 [No. 49.
friend's house and his family with him, and had there been
room he would have introduced me to him, but I made him an
apology. Alexander, another who goes as a free merchant! i)
and me took a lodging at a French house during our stay. I
at first often received invitations from my good friend Mrs.
W. to walk out on their sharp flint stones, which she liked, and
most generally on the terrass on the top of the house ; but
afterwards when we [were] reconciled in respect to our intimacy,
and found that my company was accepted of, I made free to
introduce myself. On the day of our departure Mrs. W. intro-
duced me to Mr. Dupree.f^) During the little time I picked a
httle acquaintance with him, and [after] about an hour stay
I took my leave of him in company with Mrs. D. and Miss
Monro,<3) who are very well except Mr. D. He has carried the
gout on board with him, but Mrs. D. is in great concern about
her little [child] as the small pox is on board the Queen.
" We sailed from Tenariffe the 7th of March, from which
time we had surprizing good weather with constant fair winds.
We are almost becalmed in the lattitude of 35 d[e]grees south,
which is something surprizing. We are not likely to have such
weather as what was suspected we should. My good Mrs. W.
has been under a great deal of chagrin on account of the death
of her little child, which expired about a month ago. She has
often been taken in fits since, more so than before, and has
seemed to recover her spirits ; but Miss Flora has been
onfortunately taken ill of a fever, and is again at present restored
to her former health I hope. We had her company to drink a
cup of tea with us in our little cabbin this afternoon, which
we have often had and hope to again. She is a good little girl.
Mr. Wynch has shewn me several very friendly marks, which
I must keep up at all events.
" Francisco has long been our waiting man, but is at present
obliged to turn cook, which at first he was often complaining
to me of ill usage ; but that is now all over, as the complaints
have been presented to the Captain, who has been ill, but is
now better again. I shall say nothing more particular at
present till we get sight of a ship ; then I shall make a conclusion.
— ^May the 4th.
" We are now making up to a sail as fast as we can. What she
is we can't yet tell, but imagine she is a homeward bound East
India man. Mr. and Mrs. Wynch are all well at present, and
desire their best respects to you and Mrs. Palk, &c. . . I remain,
my dear sir, your most dutiful and ever respectful nephew,
" T. Palk."
" Sunday, May 7th, 1768."
[Holograph, 4 pp.. Mo.]
(1) The writer perhaps means Alexander Wynch, jun., a cadet who accompanied
his father, and Alexander WUhams, the only free merchant on board the Button.
(2) Josias Du Pri. Vide No. 19, p. 30, note 1.
(3) Margaret Am-ora Munro.
76
[No. 50.J
[The Rev.] John Thomas 'i' to Robert Palk, Esq.
1768, May 7th, Fort St. George. — " Sir, As you had poor
Mr. Griffiths'(2) interest always at heart, I hope this letter
relative to him will need no apology.
" After a tedious and painful illness, which he bore with great
resignation, he paid his last debt to nature the 25th of last
month. His last sickness, which was a complication of diseases,
the gout and palsy, with a disorder of the bowels, deprived him
during the last fortnight of his life first of his memory and
afterwards of his understanding. Happy for him in such
circumstances that he was released out of his misery !
" He has left every thing he possessed in India for the
education and emolument of his two sons, which after the sale
of his books and furniture may probably amount to 7,000
pagodas. Mr. Stone and I, who are appointed his executors,
intend employing this money here, except what may be
expended on their education. For Mrs. Griffiths' support he has
left a sum lent on Government seciu-ity ; how much I cannot
ascertain. The Revd. Mr. Richard Canning, senior, of Ipswich,
is appointed guardian to his sons.
" It was always Mr. Griffiths' desire that both his sons should '
come out to this presidency in the civil service.
" You will pardon me. Sir, for embracing this opportunity
of returning my most thankful acknowledgments for your
favours to me at Madrass, a sense of which I hope ever to
retain . . .
[Holograph, 2j pp., 4io.]
John Thomas."
[No. 51.J
Rama Kisna to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, May 10th, Fort St. George.—" Sir, I did myself the
honor to pay you my respects by the Hector,'^^) which sailed
hence in November last. The Admiral Watson is arrived the
8th [instant], and I greatly rejoiced to hear of your safe arrival
in England.
" You will be informed by Mr. Morse of the Association
entered into by all the Eiuropean diamond merchants for
buying on certain terms and conditions, as a means of reducing
the Guzerat merchants to more reasonable terms ; but since
it took place they have been standing out in their sales at
Moonimadgoo. Perseverance on our part, we hope, will at
last have some good effect, without wJhich the trade must be
entirely ruined.
" Since my last I have had the misfortune to loose my good
(1) Chaplain at Fort St. George.
(2) Vide No. 47, p. 72, note 3.
<3) Vide No. 35, p. 57.
77 [No. 51.
uncle Mooperala Kisnya, and my wife . . . which has been
two very severe strokes to me at once and the same time. The
old man served me in the stead of a father, and I am much
indebted to his care for the good situation of my house after
the decease of my father Ramaniah. By the decease of my
wife I am left without the hopes of having any issue for some
considerable time, as you are sensible of our custom of marrying
[a] very young wife before they are come to [the] age of puberty.
" Peace has been made with the Nizam, and we are carrying
on vigorously the war against Heyer[5ic] Ally. We have taken
Kisnagury, and the army is marching into the Mysore country.
The scarcity of money is very great and the condition of trade
very indifferent. God send us better times . . .
"Rama Kisna."
[Holograph, 2| pp., 4to.]
[No. 52.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to [Robert] Palk, Esqr.
1768, May 12th, Fort St. George.—" My dear Mr. Palk, The
Admiral Watson brought me your very affectionate letter! i)
of the 15th November, which afforded me a pleasure I cannot
easily describe to you. Indeed, my dear Sir, I will ever
remember your kindness to me with a grateful heart.
" Your endeavours to procure me coral consignments were
very obliging. Mr. Bourchier's strong recommendations have
brought us one chest, and a promise of employment from two
or three other dealers.
" Enclosed you will receive a bill for £200, being two years'
interest on the money you so very obligingly lent me. ... I have
no directions from you regarding the money given by the
Nabob to poor Withecombe's father. . . I would fain have got
from him both principal and interest, but my endeavours were
fruitless ... I wrote you of poor Cranch's (^) death, and
promised to administer to the estate and settle his affairs.
This, however, I have been prevented from doing by his having
made a will when at Batavia. Madge is the only surviving
executor. The state of his affairs I know not, but imagine
they will yield about 1,500 pagodas.
" The next dispatches will, I fear, cut off all the creditors'
resources from the Nabob for some time, as ... we have a
hint about private interest clashing with the payment of his
debt to the Company. Should the Court direct his discontinuing
the payments to his creditors, I know not what they will say
on the subject, or how they will reconcile such an order. There
are some turbulent spirits amongst them not quite so ready to
(1) Vide No. 38, p. 59.
(2) Vid0 No. 42, p. 68, note 3,
No. 52.] 78
conform to commands as the President and Council are in
general.
Mr. Dupre, &c., returning to Council is, as you say, not very
agreeable to the Gentlemen here. For my own part it matters
not. Andrews(i) his appointment is the only thing that vexes
me, for I profess a regard for the service, and I cannot but think
him unworthy of it. Is there a probability even that a man
will pay a proper attention to the Company's concerns who was
totally lost to any care for his own ? And this is the man
expressly sent out because it was necessary to strengthen the
Council with sober and sedate people ! Fie on it !
" Poor Ardleyi2) was with me just now, hopping about like a
parcht pea. ' What vexes me is that Call should be put
over my head, for 'tis disgracing me without answering any one
end.' The little man is really much hurt. He wants to get
out of the Settlement, and will probably turn or endeavour to
turn Smith's) from Vizagapatam. I think, however, he will not
effect it . . .
" With respect to pohtics, the Governor and Mr. Call, I
suppose, write you fully. They will explain to you what is
doing and what is intended, but can they tell you what has
been done ? I most sincerely wish, for the sake of my worthy
friend Mr. Bourchier, that a man of real capacity may arrive
to take the command of the army. Smith, (*> with a most
amiable heart, has not an head for his station. It has been
evident from the commencement of the war — ^too evident to
us here. But will it be equally apparent to the Gentlemen at
home that such has been the chief cause of our expending
immense sums almost to no purpose ? I love Mr. Bourchier
in my heart's core, and I therefore feel the more for the many
unlucky events that have fallen out since he came to the Chair.
You know the Governor full well, and must have been sensible
of the influence Mr. Call would have over him. The latter is
unsteady. He is very snug behind the curtain. When any of
our actions (to speak in the military style) redound to our
credit, he has the power to engross a great share of it : when
the contrary, he knows on whose shoulders they will naturally
fall. I would not lay open my thoughts on such subjects to
any man but you, whom I shall ever regard as a father. If I
am culpable, chastise me as you would a son.
" Poor Griffith died last month after a very lingering and
painful illness. Captain McLean was killed some time ago.
Stratton is married to Miss Light, and Miss Carter to Captain
(1) John Andrews, who arrived in India in 1743, served in Ganjam as a political
officer, and was afterwards Resident at Madapollam. He was a member of Pigot'3
Council in 1759, and ten years later was sent as envoy to Haidar All during the
first Mysore war. He is mentioned as an inhabitant of Madras in 1790.
(2) Samuel Ardley joined the Madras civil service in 1749. In 1754 he was
' Register of the Choultry ' and under the Land Customer at Port St. George, and
five years later was in Council.
(3) John Smith, a Madras civil servant of 1752.
(4) Colonel Joseph Smith,
79 [No.' 52.
Gee.(i> Mrs. Tom Powney'^) has been innoculated, and is well
again without being marked. Most of the children in the
Settlement have undergone the same operation. Poor Donald
Campbell lost two, the only [ones] that died.
" I most sincerely hope the increase (^' you expected in your
family has proved to your satisfaction. I am particularly
interested in the happiness of yourself and Mrs. Palk, and shall
be ever, with the most grateful sentiments of esteem and regard,
your ever affectionate and obliged servant,
" W. M. GOODLAD."
" P.S. I have delivered to Captain Mears the remainder of
the letters'** you desired of me. The former part was sent by
Captain Richardson of the Pigot, and I hope have got safe to
you. By the next ship you shall have the translate of the
Spanish arguments respecting the reduction of Sooloo. Adieu
once more, my dearest Sir. Stone tenders his best wishes to
you and Mrs. Palk."
[Holograph, 5| pp., flscp.]
[No. 53.]
Lau[rence] Sulivan to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
[Endorsed in Palk's hand] " Mr. Sulivan, concerning what I
have advanced."
1768, May 19th, Great Ormond Street. — " My dearest Friend,
If I have hitherto taken no notice (except in casual discourse)
of the money I owe you, it is because I have expected from
week to week, by clearing my self of India embarrassments,
to have been in a capacity to do it ; but since my own honour
with the interest of my friends have determined me to go deeper
than ever, and consequently it will be convenient to me to delay
the payment some months longer, I think it right (though by
you not desired) that yoti have my obligation payable on demand,
and which is now enclosed. The whole I make £4,108, viz., a
bill on the Navy, 3,000 ; paid Mrs. Darvall, 1,000 ; paid Mrs.
Wood, 108 ; [Total] £4,108.
" What you have lately at times disbursed at Ashburton, let
me know the amount and I will give an order on my bankers
for the payment. I am, with true and unalterable affection,
my dear Sir, your most sincere friend and obedient servant,
" Lau. Sulivan."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4>to.]
(1) Captain Michael Gee married Marian Carter in 1768, and was killed shortly
afterwards.
(2) Catherine, daughter of Quintin de la Metiie, married in 1761 Thomas Powney,
free merchant, one of the sons of Capt. John Powney, master mariner.
(3) Catherine Palk, born 1st January, 1768,
(4) Cf. No. 32, p. 52, note 3,
80
[No. 54.]
George Vansittart to Robert Palk, Esqr.
[Endorsed — Received] 2nd May [1769, per] Valentine.
1768, September 6th, Midnapore. — " Dear Palk, I have
received your letters ... in favour of Mr. Darell,'!' and hope
to see him when I go to Calcutta. I will also do what I can
for Mr. Yarde,'^' but cannot at present learn where he is.
" I live much to my satisfaction at Midnapore, but the matter
of profit is entirely changed by the Court of Directors' orders
concerning salt, who choose rather that the benefit of that
trade should be enjoyed by a parcel of Calcutta Banyans(^)
than by their own servants. Of three things I have now to
determine which to prefer — spend more money than I can gain,
improve my fortune by means which would be prejudicial to
the Company, or trade in salt, &c., in spite of their orders at
the risque of being dismissed from their service.
" I am sorry to have a piece of very disagreeable news to
communicate to you. Through the influence of bad example
and bad advice your nephew'^' has been led into a scrape, which
I fear will be the means of his losing the Company's service.
Upon his arrival at Cossimbazar he was appointed to the ofiice of
Buxey,(^' and in consequence had the care of providing materials
for the cantonments which are building there. In the manage-
ment of this business his predecessors had been used to charge
the Company 30, 40, 50 per cent, above the bazar price. Your
nephew was unfortunate enough to continue the practice.
A month or two ago it was discovered, and it is now under
strict examination. I have sent Harry'*' a copy of what he
has been able to say in his defence : he will show it to you.
" Mrs. G. Van. desires to be remembered. She was brought
to bed of a boy<^) the 19th of last month, and is now very well.
My love to Mrs. Palk. I will write to her by the next ship.
My congratulations to you both on the increase of your family.
" Mr. Verelst (^) talks of going home this season, and Mr.
Cartier'^' will succeed to the Chair. We are at present in peace,
but probably shall not be so long : however, I will not go about
to entertain you with politicks or news. I write fully and
freely to Harry, and that must suffice. I am ever, my dear
Palk, your very sincerely affectionate
" George Vansittart."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.]
(1) Lionel Darell, a Bengal civil servant of 1768, resigned in 1776. He became
u, Director of the Company in 1780, and was created a baronet in 1795.
(2) John Yarde, a lately arrived Cadet. He became Captain in 1777, and died
in the same year at Dinapore. He appears to have belonged to Churstou Ferrers.
(3) Banyan, from Hind, banya, a native trader, especially from Guzerat.
(4) Robert Palk, jim.
(5) Buxey, from Hind. iaJehsM, paymaster.
(6) Henry Vansittart.
(7) George Henry Vansittart.
(8) Harry Verelst became Governor on the retirement of Clive in February, 1767,
(9) John Cartier succeeded Verelst in 1769,
81
[No. 55.]
T[homas] Palk to R[obert] Palk, Esq.
1768, September 30th, Camp near Colar to the southward of
Madras.*!) — " My dear Sir, We arrived here the 13th July after
a passage of six months, which I thought very long. . . Mr.
Wynch behaved exceedingly well to me : I wanted for nothing.
I came ashore at Madras in the boat with him and Mrs. W.,
who was very kind to me, more so than I ever could expect ;
not the least vanity appeared in her. I was to have had a
room in his house, but Mr. Goodlad insisted that I should be
with him whilst I remained at Madras, which was about a
fortnight, I being very busy preparing myself for camp.
Goodlad is very much my friend and adviser. . . .
" Mr. Goodlad recommended me to his worthy friend Captain
Hector Mackay, with whom I live in camp, who advises in
everything : he is [a] worthy man.
" Ever since I have been here we have been running about
the country after our hero Hyder, who wants to take our great
guns that we are getting up to go against Bangolure, a very
strong fort, our army being divided ; our army being in the
road to Bangulore, and the other division watching Hyder's
motions. We want to bring him to an engagement, but he is
so artful a warrier he won't let us . . . He has, I hear, made
proposals of peace to us, which is at present a secret, it being
an uncertainty. ... It may be well enough for those that have
made their fortunes, but as for the subalterns I know not what
they will do. This is a life. Sir, that I am contented with and
that I like very much, was I not so low on the list, but that is
I hope to your certainty of getting me in the Civil list.
" I assure you I meet with a great many friends here. Colonel
Campbell is very kind to me ; he wanted me to live with him.
He went to Colar sick on account of the ball he received in his
body,<^' but I fear it will hinder him from taking the field again. . .
I need not tell you how much he is beloved here, which I imagine
you are no stranger to. Colonel Smith is an exelent man.
I often dine with him, as I shall to day. He is a man, which
no one is unless he is sensible of feeling. How much my father
is mistaken [in] the objection he had against my being in the
army, that I should be more exposed to bad company. Here
is, [I] own, good and bad, and very good genteel young fellows :
therefore if I keep the bad company it is my fault.
" I wrote to my brother'^' at Bengal, but whether it will go
safe I know not, as he is not at Calcutta. . . I had a letter
from Tom Palk'*' the night I got to camp, who is with Captain
(1) Colar (Kolar) is 200 miles due west of Madras.
(2) Donald Campbell received a wound at the siege of Madura in 1763, which
troubled him for years.
<3) Robert Palk, jun.
(*! Lieut. Thomas Palk.
r
No. 55.] 82
Madge. ... I hope that Mrs. P. is well and my little
cousins. . . I remain, my dear Sir, your sincere and affectionate
nephew
"T. Palk."
[P.S.] " Since I wrote you the former. I told you how happy
I was with Captain Mackay, but since [then] I have lost him,
lost him ; he is no more. In attempting to escalade the Fort
of Malwagle i^' on a high rock, that is an impossibility to
perform ever. We took it by stratagem from Hyder, as did he
again, but 'tis imagined by bribery ; but, however. Colonel
Wood<2' marched there immediately and ordered a party to
storm it if possible, and my dear Hector would go a volunteer,
and was obstinate enough not to be advised to the contrary ;
but he got on the wall twice and [was] knocked off, and making
the retreat my friend, whom I could venture to call so, was
killed. What his friend Goodlad suffers is unaccountable,
whom he made Ms executor."
[Holograph, 6 pp., Mo.]
[No. 56.]
Mrs. Kitoria Sloper*^) to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, October 4th, Cuddalore. — Sir, I have received from
your attorneys sums of £903 8s. 3d. and £454 19s. 5d. in pagodas
at 7s. 8d. as interest on the children's legacies from January,
1767, to April, 1769, for which I and the other guardians have
given bills in your favour on Messrs. Boehm & Sons, merchants,
of Size Lane, in whose hands Major Brownrigg has deposited a
declaration of trust. " You have greatly obliged me in your
assistance and has restored peace and gladness to my heart . . .
I am also greatly obliged to Major Brownrigg for so honourably
discharging his trust . . .
" Kitoria Sloper."
[Autograph, 1 p., flscp.]
(1) The hill fort of Mulbagal, 17 miles east of Kolar, was taken by stratagem in
June, 1768, by Captain Richard Mathews, disguised as a native officer. Haidar
recovered the place three mouths later. He was attacked by Colonel Wood, who
retook the lower defences on the 3rd October, but failed in an attempt to escalade
the rock. A battle followed on the 4th, in which M'ood narrowly escaped defeat.
(2) John Wood was commissioned Ensign in the Company's Europeans in 1753,
and held the rank of Captain five years later. He served as Major at the second
siege of Madura in 1764 under Colonel Charles Campbell. In 1767 Lieut. Colonel
Wood moved from Trichinopoly to join Colonel Joseph Smith against Haidar Ali,
and was present at the battle of Trinomalai. In 1768 he commanded an independent
division in the Baramahal, where he met with remarkable success. On the summons
to Madras of Colonel Smith, Wood assumed chief command, but displayed incapacity
and sustained such serious reverses that he was recalled. He was tried by court-
martial in 1769 on charges of misappropriation of stores and misconduct in the
field, and though acquitted by the Court was dismissed the service by Government.
The Directors subsequently upheld the acquittal. He married Elizabeth Owen
in 1762, and died at Madras in 1774.
(3) Widow of Robert Sloper, a civil servant of 1749, who was Sea and Laud
Customer at Cuddalore in 1754,
83
[No. 57.]
Mrs. Jane Morse d) to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
1768, October 9th, Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, Yesterday
arrived a pacquet from Bombay with letters from Europe dated
the 27th of May, giving an account of the arrival of the Hector
with a hst of the new Directors ; that Mr. Saunders (2) had
resigned in a pet, and Mr. Sulivan not being in, there is little
hopes of seeing Mr. Vani^' again in India. I imagin he will
therefore forme a plan suitable to his fortune and incressing
family.
" The disagreeable disputes Mr. Majendia (*' and young
Carmichael has had with Captain Jackson has given their
friends concern and trouble. However, the attention which
Mr. Holland and Mr. Morse has had to both partys has prevented
its being brought before the Board, and indeed I think it had
been better let alone on all sides. Mr. Majendia came a shore
very ill. He found great benefit from the Mount air. They
staid here two months, and went to Bengal in a French ship.
" The Directors has sent orders to all their Settlements that
all those people that are come to India without their leave
should be sent home by the first ship. Young Carmichael and
Mr. Cuthbert's'^' brother are of the number, and how that affair
may be settled at Bengal I do not know.
" I have the pleasure to tell you, dear Sir, your nephew Mr.
John Palk'^) is well at camp. He seems of a happy dis-
position and ready to take any advice his friends may give him. . .
The Nabob is expected from camp in a few days to live at
Lawrence BaugjC' and I hear Mr. Hydro'^' does not intend we
should go to the Mount. My compliments to dear Mrs. Palk,
and I am, dear Sir, your affectionate and obliged humble servant,
" Jane Morse."
[Holograph, 3f pp., Uo.]
(1) Jane Morse, n4e Goddard, became in 1730, the wife of Nicholas Morse of the
civil service, who was Governor of Madras when the town capitulated to the French
in 1746. She was granted a permit by De la Bourdonnais to leave the Port prior
to its bombardment, but refusing to seek security she employed herself with other
ladies in making cartridge cases for the heavy guns. After the surrender she was
sent with her husband to Pondicherry. When Madras was threatened by Lally
in 1758 Mrs. Morse and her daughter Mrs. Vansittart were despatched for safety
to the Dutch settlement of Sadras, but that town having been occupied by the
French a few days earlier, the two ladies fell into the hands of the enemy.
(2) Thonias Saunders had been President and Governor at Fort St. David
1750-52, and at Port St. George 1752-55. Vide also p. 70, note 2.
(3) Hem-y Vansittart, Mrs. Morse's son-in-law.
(*' Andrew Majendie was a Madras civil servant of two years' standing.
(5) Arthur Cuthbert came to India with Admiral Watson in 1754. From 1763
he traded at Madras as a free merchant, and in 1771 became Agent for the Squadron.
He married Sarah Hopkins in 1765.
(6) An error for Thomas Palk. John Palk, who was not a nephew of Governor
Palk, arrived in India in June 1770.
(7) General Lawrence's garden-house at St. Thomas's Mount,
(8) Sportive for Haidar A:lii
84
[No. 58.]
Captain T[homas] Madge to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, October 16th, Samulcotah.— " Dear Sir, I had the
pleasure to receive your favor by Mr. Welshford,(i) who
forwarded it to me from Madrass, as he was ordered to proceed
with some other cadets to join the army under Colonel Smith
to the southward." I have recommended him to friends there,
and when the campaign is over I shall apply for his transfer
here, as well as that of young Palk unless you have previously
secured the latter's admission to the civil service.
" I wish I could say anything in favor of Mr. Smerdon, or
could flatter myself with hopes of being able to do justice to
your recommendation in his behalf. But as his behavior is so
very inconsistent with the way of Ufe he has engaged on. . . I
fear he will never get a commission. He may thank his ill-
judging father for his present imbecillity and infatuation. The
latter has been the consequence of his morose behavior to
and close confinement of the young man to the study of books
at hours and times when he ought to have been taught to form
his judgement of men, and have instructed himself in their
manners ; for the neglect of which, notwithstanding his
laborious education, his boasted skill in classical learning, he
can be deemed no otherwise than a learned block head. The
close attachment to study so much disgusted him that now he
is left to his own discretion he indulges his inclinations to their
utmost scope, some of which are very much to the prejudice
of his character and principles.
" The niggardly behavior of his father when he launched
him into the world is scarcely credible ; for who would imagine
a person in his circumstances would have sent his son on a
voyage to India with no other allowance to furnish [him] with
necessaries for the voyage but the £10 he received at the India
House ? However, with that sum, and that only, was he hurried
aboard the Clive, Indiaman, at a very short notice, even after
he had declared (as he tells me) his aversion to the way of life
he was precipitated into, unprovided with proper cloaths for
the country or even the voyage. This unnatural behavior
of the father subjected the young man to such mean distresses
as quite suppressed the small share of spirit he derived from
constitution, as he was driven to the necessity of living on the
bare ship's allowance before he had been three months at sea,
which excluded him from the mess and consequently the society
of the other cadets . . . and so unprovided was he with cloaths
that he was obliged to borrow of his comrades what he was
deficient in before he could come ashore at Madrass !
" He ought, however, to have thought his distresses at an
end on his arrival in India, as I allowed him whatever money
he pretended to have occasion for, and had ordered my agent
(1) A cadet. Cf. No. 71, p. 99, note 1,
85 [No. 58.
at Madrass to equip him for camp, whither he had been ordered
to proceed with some other cadets. On being acquainted with
these orders he declared publickly that he would on no account
go to camp till he had seen me, and thait he had been sent out
by you to be under my care, otherwise he would never have
come to India. His obstinately persisting in his resolution of
not going to camp began to be taken notice of at Madras, which
would soon have infallibly ruined him, had not a friend of mine
then on the spot . . . advised me to get him to the northward."
On this hint I wrote to Mr. Bourchier, who kindly arranged
his transfer.
" Since his arrival he has given another reason for refusing
to join the army than that the military life is not agreeable to
his inclination, and — what is only commendable in his whole
conduct — ^frankly confesses his want of spirit. He is now at
head quarters, where " he has already tried Colonel Tod's
patience " by his dronish method of life and aversion to improve
himself . . . You will at once perceive he will never make a
soldier, nor be fit for any other way of life in so licentious, so
dissipated a country as India. And if his father has the least
share of affection remaining for his son, he ought imnaediately
to send for him home and preserve him from unavoidable ruin
and disgrace, which must otherwise be his fate !
" The adopting the cause of our almost friendless military
establishment by you, General Lawrence and General Caillaud
gives me some faint hopes that the injustice done us by the
Directors will not be repeated the next season, as nothing can
be more grievous or unmerited. They are themselves pleased
to commend the behavior of their military servants on the
Coast, whilst they disapprove of the licentiousness of those at
Bengal, to check which his lordship was imder the necessity of
taking another trip to India. And the sending out field officers
for that establishment might have been thought necessary
by him in order to curb that spirit of dissension he had reason
to apprehend was not entirely suppressed. But as our Corps
has never been known to have proved refractory, it is really
hard we should suffer for the faults of another."
The Company's action in sending us two new majors from
England is resented by the superseded captains, and the Madras
Board has made no remonstrance. When peace is made with
Haidar, Donald Campbell, Wood, Hart and another field officer
are expected to retire, and I shall be senior captain for
promotion. If I am superseded I must protest by resigning.
Having saved about £4,000, I shall be able to clear off my
father's debts, " when the allowance of my half pay will soften
the pains and infirmities of declining age and render that
generally comfortless portion of life at least tolerable."
I will not attempt an account of political matters on the
Coast, nor of the operations to the southward, but will only say
that " the not pursuing the measures you had lain down at
No. 58.] 86
your quitting the Government, and which seemed so well
calculated for checking, if not effectually destroying, the hopes
which our old enemies the French promise thems'elves in a
future national war in India with the assistance of the Mysorean,
appears very strange to an impartial observer. The French
very visibly exult in our want of penetration, and amongst
themselves promise the speedy accomplishment of that revenge
they in their late despair comforted themselves with — the hopes
of reducing us to the same degree of misery we had the good
fortune to make their lot in the late war."
I enclose probate of Captain Cranch's will. The amount
hitherto collected of his estate, some Pags. 300, is required to
pay off a trust for the relations of a deceased officer. Learning
that Cranch's mother is in poor circumstances, I beg you to
pay the legacies left to her and her son and daughter in advance
of " future collections and remittances. " The leaving the
principal part of his fortune to a natural child . . . when he
knew he had a mother and a lawfull wife who were in want of
every thing he could leave them, is what I never expected from
the honest disposition of my old friend. As he has made no
provision in his will for his wife, she will, I presume, be entitled
to a third of what he may have died worth . . .
" I cannot finish this voluminous letter without congratulating
you on your getting a seat in Parliament for Wareham,<i' nor
be singular amongst the joyfull inhabitants of Ashburton in
not testifying my acknowledgements for the share you have
had in procuring them so valuable a representative as Mr.
Sulivan, to whom I could wish to be gratefully remembered
likewise.
" The happy delivery of Mrs. Palk and the joy expressed by
your wellwishers at Ashburton on your return to your native
country gave me that becoming satisfaction I shall always feel
on every occasion of your happiness. And that you and Mrs.
Palk may long enjoy every blessing which health attended with
affluence, and the disposition of making the proper use of it,
will never cease to bring you, are the unfeigned wishes of, dear
Sir, your truly devoted and gratefully obliged humble servant,
"T. Madge."
[Holograph, 8 pp., 4to.]
[Enclosure.]
Copy of Probate of Will of Lieut. Peter Cranch of the Com-
pany's service, signed by Charles Smith, Mayor of Madras-
patnam, on 12th April, 1768, together with copy of Will of
Lieut. Peter Cranch, of H.M. 79th Regiment, executed at
Batavia on 28th August, 1764. Executors, Capt. Francis Du
Pont, Lieut. William Fleming and Lieut. Robert McNab, all
of H.M. 79th Regiment, and Lieut. Thomas Madge, of H.M.
96th Regiment.
[5j pp. flscp. Wax seal, defaced, of the Mayor's Court.]
II) Ashbui'ton was represented by Robert Palk, from 1767 to 1768 and from
1774 to 1787, and by Laurence Sulivan from 1768 to 1774.
87
[No. 59.]
LfEUT. Thomas Palk to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
1768, October 24th, Samalcotah. — " Sir, I hope you have
duly received my last letter dated from Chicacole, in which I
acquainted you of an expedition's being ordered to march
against Hyderabad. We soon returned, as peace was made
with the Nizam when we were within five days' march of his
capital. Soon after our joyning Colonel Hart I was appointed
his Aid du Camp, in which station I acted a very short time,
as the command was taken from him by Colonel Peach, of the
Bengali detachment.
" Hyder Ally has been very troublesome ere since, although
he has been worsted in every engagement. Colonel Wood has
been excessive lucky in his conquests of late : he has taken
several of Hyder's forts, in one of which he put about 6,000
people to the sword ; he indeed in general gives them little
or no quarter. About the beginning of this month he attacked
Hyder's whole army, which consisted of about thirty thousand
horse and foot, with only 450 Europeans and three thousand
sepoys. The action lasted five hours, when Hyder was obliged
to retreat, leaving in the field about 2,000 (thousand) foot
killed, 100 (hundred) horse, and several elephants and camels.
On our side were killed Captains Villiers Fitzgerald' i) and Hector
Mackay, 2 ensigns and 63 private killed and wounded, and
about 250 sepoys killed and wounded.
" About two months since, on an alarum in our Morattoe
camp. Captain Gee, who was Aid de Camp to Colonel Smith,
was ordered to see what was the matter ;• but the Morattoes,
imagining him to belong to Hyder Ally cut him to pieces. (2)
He is greatly lamented . . . He married Miss Carter about 6
months before his death.
" Cousin Thomas arrived some time since, but I have not
as yet had the pleasure of seeing him . . as he is at present with
Colonel Smith. He acquaints me by letter that he left all
friends in Devonshire well . . . He seems to like a camp life
very well, and says most of your friends behave excessive kind
to him. Young Mr. Smerdon was with us at this place (for a
few days) about 2 months since, but is at present at EUore under
Lieutenant Colonel Tod's command. I am sorry to acquaint
you that his behaviour has been very indifferent since his arrival.
I shall defer giving any account of him, as Captain Madge tells
me he intends writing you a long letter concerning him, and
another to Mr. Smerdon to advise him to send for his son
home . . .
(1) Captain Robert ViUiers PitzGerald distinguished himself at the attack on
the hiU-fort of Kistnagiri in 1767, and was killed at Mulbagal in October, 1768.
(2) The Marathas here mentioned were a contingent of mercenaries under Morari
Rao, Chief of Gooty, engaged by the British after the defection of the Peshwa's
army. Haidar's cavalry made a night assault on their camp on the 22nd August,
and Morari Rao ordered his troopers to remain on foot and attack all mounted
men. Captain Gee galloping up from the adjacent British camp to investigate,
was mistaken for a Mysorean and cut down.
No. 59.] 88
" I received a letter from cousin Robert about a month ago.
He is still third in Council at Cossimbuzar. He acquaints me
that Suraja Dowla <i) is on the point of breaking out with the
Company again, and that he has an immense army now in the
field. It is also thought that the Nizam will not keep to his
treaty long, for which reason Councillor Wh3rtle '^i is ordered
on an embassy to Hyderabad to endeavour to prevent Hyder
Ally's bringing him over, which it is conjectured would be the
case unless Mr. Whytle settles matters . . .
" There are three field officers and three captains arrived
this season ; one of the majors is dead since his arrival. It is
reported several of the field officers intend leaving the country
as soon as the war with Hyder Ally is at an end.
" By letters from my mother and uncle this season they inform
me of their having seen you at Ashburton soon after your
arrival, [and] of your kindness in promising to send my brother (^'
out as soon as of a proper age ... Be pleased to naake my
respects to Mrs. Palk, and to Mr. Palk'*) and his spouse at
Ashburton. I remain, with due regard and esteem, Sir, your
most obliged and devoted humble servant,
" Thomas Palk."
" P.S. This last engagement with Hyder Ally is said to have
been the warmest contested action that has happened since
General Lawrence appeared on the plains of Thichanopoly ;
by which Colonel Wood has gained great honour."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.']
[No. 60.]
George Purnell to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, October 27th, Fort St. George.— Sir, I could scarcely
expect replies from you to my applications of February and
April, 1767, but letters received from the correspondents of
Mr. Morse's house show how greatly I am indebted to you.
" I am likewise informed by Mr. Morse of the kind pains you
was at, relating to my being fixed in it, which renders me so
greatly obliged to you that I want words to express my most
gratefull thanks. . . ." If I may make one more request it
is that you will favour me with a recommendation to Mr. Du
Pre ... .
" George Purnell."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo.]
[No. 61.]
Nic[holas] Morse to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1768, October—, Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir . . . My letter
wrote you the 1st of August . . will let you know the situation of
(1) Shuja-ud-daula, Nawab Vizier of Oudh.
(2) John Wliitehill, a member of the Madras Council.
(3) John Palk.
(*) Walter Palk, brother of Governor Palk.
89 [No. 61.
affairs at that time, and I wish I could now say that Vengalore
had been attacked, but yet the siege of that is not begun. The
getting up the heavy cannon, ammunition and other matters
have taken up all this time, and Hydro Naigue trying every
thing to save his capital. Colonel Wood lately engaged him
in battle for several hours, and 'tis said killed on his side eight
of his principal officers, 400 horses and one thousand men.
The English loss was 4 officers killed, 5 wounded, 20 Europeans
and one hundred sepoys. Some days ago he sent an agent to
the camp, perhaps only to amuse till his horse that he had sent
for from Biddanore came to him, and who were in the action
with Colonel Wood. I believe the Gentlemen would come into
any honourable proposals for setling matters with Hydro, as
the war is expensive, and attended with much trouble, and
injurious to the revenues ; and his horse may make sad ravages
in the country, which desperation may drive him to. It will
be that only that will put him on sending for the Morattas to
assist, for he is jealous of them, and would rather chuse to have
none near him ; and we may wish that those locusts may not
appear in the Carnatic. The Nabob has been much out of
order of late, chiefly, I believe, owing to vexation of mind . .
and he has had a large share of it since 1750. He remains yet
in the camp, but [it is] uncertain if he will stay long there or
come to Velloor.
" I find that Lord Clive's friendship for Mr. V.d) was but of
a short continuance. He, it's said, is much recovered, and
probably is with you at London before now to try at some thing
or another, for he can never rest. His behaviour to Mr. V. has
not been suitable to the professions he made, and it would have
been more honourable to have not made them when he knew
what he had imderhand done to hurt him.
" Letters overland from London of the — May bring advices
of the election and a hst of the Directors chosen ; Mr. Bolton,'^)
Chairman, Sir George Colebrooke, Deputy, &c., and Mr.
Saunders (3) quitted. This seems to have not been expected,
nor is it said how it has happened. We must waite to know
how these gentlemen stand affected to Mr. V., or if there is
any likelihood of his coming abroad. It was mentioned in a
letter that came by the Grenville that Mr. V. had desired a
General Court to be called on the 8th of April, but we are
strangers to what was done there on that day with regard to
him. It is publickly talked in town that the Gentlemen at
home do not approve of the war with Hydro, or the connection
with the Subah of Golcondah.
" Capts. Johnson and Paine have had my advice in jegard
to the disposal of their adventures .... So many ships, and
all bringing the same articles, overstocked the market. How-
(11 Henry Vansittart.
(2) Henry Crabb Boulton, Chairman in 1768.
(3) Thomas Saunders, Deputy Chairman in 1767.
No. 61.] 90
ever, considering all things, they have fared as well as could be
expected . . . Mr. Helling delivered me the garden seeds, as
Mr. Carmichael did the broad cloth . . . Mr. Helling is in a
way to soon get the command of a vessel by the help of Mr.
Johnson, and seems a very deserving person. I hope the
accounts of the House will be ready to send you by the next
opportunity. Mr. De Fries<i) has not kept up to his repeated
promises to finish them . . . There was no ship to Manilla this
year, not is there hkely to be one the next, nor till it is known
what treatment the ship is to meet with ....
" Captain Mackay being killed in the storming a small fort
on a hill, your nephew will be recommended to some other
person.
" There are orders from Europe to endeavour to get in the*
Nabob's debt to the Company, which by the war is greatly
inlarged. The creditors have agreed, on the Governor and
Council's pressing instances, to lend them upwards of 200,000
pagodas ; but I imagine they can do no more, as the want of
money is very great, and some have their all there, and perhaps
others somewhat more. Persons are not a little uneasy
on this occasion, and desirous of getting what they can ; and
it would be very hard upon many to waite for years to get
in their money, which is secured to them under the strongest
obligations and when the Company's then debt was in a fair
way of being cleared in that period . . .
" The diamonds now sent are esteemed here to be about
4 to 5 per cent, better in quality than what went on the
Egmont, and the Association has been of some service to the
giving a check to the bringing in goods of an inferior quality.
Nilcantaker has not been so forward as we could have wished
in furnishing us for this ship. . . .
"Nic. Morse."
[Holograph, 6 pp., 4io.]
[No. 62.]
Robert Palk to [William Martin Goodlad.]
1768, November 1st, London. Received 18th May, 1769,
per Lioness. — " Dear Billy, Your two last letters are of the
21st September and 6th November [1767], and we have since
in some measure been relieved from our anxiety by some success
against Hyder Aly, and the return of Nizam Aly to our alliance.
This I hope will inable you sufficiently to lower Hyder Naig,
and prevent his being troublesome in future.
" Being but just returned from Devonshire, I have not lately
seen Mrs. or Miss Goodlad, but I hear they are well. I have
succeeded no better than last year in the consignment way.
The trade is become so bad that they all talk of withdrawing
(1) John d'Pries, who later succeeded to Morse's business and established the
firm of Felling & De Fries.
91 [No. 62.
their concerns ; therefore be careful how you meddle with
diamonds, for in general they will not now bring seven shillings. . .
'' Your militia'i' no doubt was admirably appointed, well
disciplined and well commanded ; but with such light infantry
as James Bourchier, Jos. Smith, yourself and Troutback (^i
should have marched out to the enemy and given them a fright,
of which they would have been very susceptible ; but I suppose
you were taken by surprize, and they were too quick in their
motions.
" Mr. Sulivan (^' would not be dissuaded from trying his luck
once more : the lists of Proprietors will be published in a few
days, and then, if I mistake not, he will see clearly that, with
all the split votes(*> the Dutch could furnish, he has not the
least chance ; and I shall be glad to see an end to all contest.
" Nancy and Lawrence are well, and a little girl<^' [was]
born the first of this year. My nephew Tom being appointed
a Writer, I desire that you and Stone'**' will take him under your
management and endeavor to qualify him for a good Company's
servant. I forgot to say to his Honor the Governor that the
General desires he will favor and protect Mr. Ballard, who went
out a Cadet in the same ship with Mr. Alexander. I am ever,
dear Billy, your affectionate and sincere friend,
[Holograph, 2| pp. flscp.] " Robt. Palk."
[No. 63.]
Robert Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.
1768, November 22nd, London. Received 31st May, 1769,
per Mr. Cockrane.C) — " Dear Goodlad, The friends of the bearer,
a son of Lord Dundonald, having desired a recommendation,
what greater service can I render him than to desire you will
take care that he is well instructed in his duty to the Company,
which is the only method to contribute to his future success ? . .
" Your sincere and affectionate friend,
[Holograph, 1 p., 4to.] " Robt. Palk."
(1) Embodied in September, 1768, when Haidar's horse raided the suburbs of
(2) Samuel Troutback, Yiorn in 1700, was boatswain of the King George when
that ship was wrecked near Sadras in 1721, after which he became a free merchant
at Port St. George. He married Susanna Morgan in 1726, and died in 1785, leaving
the bulk of his property to St. John's Charity School, Wapping, where he had been
educated. Legal difficulties resulted in the bequest passing to the Crown.
(3) Laurence Sulivan.
(*) Each holder of £500 and upwards of India stock possessed one vote in the
Court of Proprietors which elected the twenty-four Directors. To increase their
voting power it was the practice for large stockholders to split their holdmgs into
blocks of £500 and transfer them nominaUy to friends, retaining a caU on their
votes, which were termed split-votes.
(5) Catherine Palk.
'61 John Maxwell Stone, Secretary in the Military and Political Department.
(7) The Hon. Basil Cochrane, fifth son of the 8th Earl of Dundonald, entered
the Madras civil service at the age of sixteen. He filled various minor appoint-
ments and was engaged in private commercial undertakings. In 1800 when
Military Paymaster, he completed a canal on the west side of Fort St. Ceorge,
which bears his name.
92
[■No. 64.]
Robert Palk to W[illia]m Martin Goodlad.
1768, December 5th, London. Received 27th July, 1769,
per Mr. Phipps. — " My dear Billy, The bearer is a son of Mrs.
Phipps, who is a near relation of Mr. Aldersey's, and on that
account I am sure you will be very happy to shew him your
hospitality during his stay at Madras; and I desire you will
introduce him to Mr. Bourchier and all my friends, that he may
pass his time agreeably while he stays with you ... I am,
dear Billy, most affectionately yours,
"RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo.]
[No. 65.]
George Vansittart to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1769, January 5th. On my way from Calcutta to Midnapore. —
You will have heard of Plowman's C^' unexpected death. I
went to Calcutta to adjust our business, and made it over to
Darrell'^' and Hollond,'^' with whom I have entered into
partnership for commission business only.
I did not before mention " that your nephew<*> had involved
himself the deeper in his scrape by agreeing with the other
Cossimbazar gentlemen to destroy his Bengal accounts at the
time they were demanded from him by the Committee of
Inquiry. This, however, was the case ; and this being considered,
the Gentlemen of the Council have, I think, acted towards him
with all the lenity which could be expected. Upon his deliver-
ing to them a just account of his profits, and acknowledging
the impropriety of his conduct, they have allowed him an
emolument of 15 per cent, upon the prime cost of the materials
in consideration of trouble, risks and charges, and they have
continued him in the service with only the restriction that he
shall not be employed out of Calcutta till the Company's pleasure
be known. It must now be your care and his other friends'
in Europe to get his pardon confirmed and compleated. Mr.
Verelst promises that both in his publick and private letters
he will write strongly in his favour. (5> The prime cost of the
materials which he provided was about a lack of rupees ; his
profits about 60,000. I look upon Alexander*''' to be the person
to whom he is principally obliged for escaping so well ..."
I am ordered on " deputation to Janoojee, the Moratta Chief
(1) Henry Plowman, Vansittart's partner in private business.
(2) Lionel DareU. Vide No. 54, p. 80, note 1.
(3) William Holloud was a Bengal civil servant of 1767.
(*) Robert Palk, jun.
(6) Cf. Letter from Verelst to Robert Palk, sen., 21 Sept., 1768. (B.M. Add.
MSS. 34,686.)
(6) James Alexander entered the Madras civil service in 1752. He was admitted
to Coimcil in 1763, and went home in the following year. Returning to India in
1767 on transfer to Bengal, he served there until 1771. He sat as M.P. for Derry
from 1772 to 1789, and in 1790 he was created Earl of Caledon.
93 [No. 65.
at Nagpore," a trip of 400 or 500 cos. Shuja-ud-daula has
agreed to a limitation of his forces, and we are now good friends
again.
" George Van Sittart."
[Holograph, 4. pp.. Mo.]
[No. 66.]
Nic[holas] Morse to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1769, February 28th, Fort St. George.— " By the accident
of the Chatham being blown out of the road our friends will
have been disappointed of having the letters wrote for her so
early as they may have been expected. The Button takes them
now, on which ship take passage Mr. Carter, Mr. Calland and
family, Mr. Sadleir, Mrs. Donald Campbell and children,
Captains Adair and Drilling.
" I have ballanced the books of our concerns, and I send you
a copy of the journal. There are only two or three articles
to be accounted for : one the Nabob's debt, which is paying off
yearly. Part of what has been paid the last year has been lent
the Company at the desire of the Governor and Council. . .
" Mr. Plowman's death you will hear [of] by the ships from
Bengali. Mr. George has taken for partners Messrs. Darell
and William Hollond. It's said he is going on an embassy to
Jonadee,'^' Chief of the Morattoes.
" There has been a great scarcity of money at Calcutta, which
has been a great hindrance to business and to the making
regular payments, whilst the French and Dutch abound. The
difficulty of getting money home furnishes the former with such
large sums that their Company is enabled to carry on their
affairs with great advantage, and private persons also enjoy
the benefit. They are erecting their fortifications at Pondichery
by order from France, to which they give much attention. . . "
Mr. Churchill, who brought letters of recommendation from
you to Mr. George Vansittart and myself, delayed proceeding
to Bengal, and asked for an advance of money. I gave him
£100, but declined a further application. Mr. Vansittart writes
that he has directions to pay Mr. Churchill £100 only per annum.
" I send you a box containing 40 of St. Ignatius's Beads,!^)
which I have desired Mr. Carter to put in his chest. They have
been lately found to be a very good remedy for the bite of a rat,
both inwardly and outwardly made use of.
" Your nephew, Mr. Thomas has been appointed an ensign
for some time, and is well esteemed in the. army . . .
" You will by this ship have a very disagreeable account of
the state of the war with Hydro Naigue. As I am only a
(1) Janoji.
(2) St. Ignatius's Beans, which Morse calls " Beads," were the seeds of a plant
of the Philippines resembling nux vomica, and were used by the natives in cases
of cholera. In November, 1767, Palk had written^to^James Bourchier to ask for
St. Ignatius's beans. {Brit. Mus. Add. MSS. 34,685.)
No. 66.] 94
bystander I shall not take upon me to write on the subject, but
leave it to Mr. Bourchier to write, and Mr. Carter to tell you how
matters stand. They will no doubt occasion much uneasiness
at home, as they do abroad, to find the country so terribly
harrassed and distressed by the ravages of this man daily
committed in one part or other of the country. I wish the
advices by the Thames may be more agreeable . . .
" Nic. Morse."
[Holograph, 4| pp., 4to.]
[No. 67.]
Certificate of the President and Council of Fort St. George.
1769; February 28th, Fort St. George. — That the sum of
Pags. 272, 26 fa, 15 ca. has been received into the Company's
cash from Mr. Reynold Adams'^' on account of the estate of
Captain Peter Cranch, deceased. Signed by Chs. Bourchier,
Jos. Du Pre, John Call, Ar. Wynch, John Andrews,
Geo. Stratton, Geo. Dawson, Jas. Bourchier, Richd.
Brickenden, Geo. Mackay,
[1 p. flscp.]
[No. 68.]
Rama Kisna to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, March 9th, Fort. St. George. — Diamonds to the value
of Pags. 350,000 go by this ship, the Dutton.
" This war of Hyder Ally has been very unfortunate to the
English, and caused great troubles and anxiety to the inhabi-
tants, [so] that if we don't soon have a peace to relieve us from
our miserys, we shall be very miserable indeed. I pray for the
continuance of your protection towards me and old Mooperala
Kisnia's son Cassavaia . . .
" Rama Kisna.'"
[Holograph, 1 p., flscp.]
[No. 69.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to [Robert Palk, Esq.]
1769, March 11th. Fort St. George. — I have received your
letter by Mr. Helling. Johnson and I have procured for him
the command of a fine ship now building at Bandermalanka.(^>
I hear good reports of your nephew Thomas, who has now held
a commission for some months. He will not readily resign
military for civil duties, but will nevertheless follow your wishes.
" I am almost affraid to say any thing on politics, but still I
'D Vide No. 112, p. 141, note 1.
(2) A port on the Godavari coast, where abundant supplies of teak were available.
95 [No. 69.
cannot entirely be silent. You will hear from all hands how
truely unprofitable the war has proved to us, and that indeed
we were never before so handled. Excepting Cuddalore
Tnchenopoly, Madura and Pallamcotah, we have not a foot to
the southward of Pondicherry that we can call our own : all
the country to the southward entirely laid waste ; not an hutt
or inhabitant to be seen for sixty miles together, so terrible have
been, and still are, the devastations of the enemy's horse. The
Coimbatoor country we once called our own, but alas, every
fort surrendered again on the first summons, and we are in a
much worse situation than ever we were. I dare not touch
further on these matters or on our real situation at this time :
you will in all probability be fully informed of it from other
quarters, and my silence is therefore the more pardonable.
" Our friend Mr. B.d) will most probably return to England
about this time next year, as heartily sick of his station as ever
man was. He has indeed been truely unfortunate, for his
government has been attended with nothing but the most
untoward circumstances. I feel for him most sincerely, and
tremble at the consequences which our ill success may bring
on him. He would have been much happier if the same ship
had carried you both to England, and for his sake I really wish
he had then quitted us ; for I cannot believe that his circum-
stances will have much benefitted, and I am sure his mind would
have been much more at ease than it can be after the change
which has happened in the Company's affairs under his adminis-
tration .... I know no man who ought to hug himself more
than you, for surely never was there a less ruffled Government
than when the reins were in your hands.
" I have very little to say to you on the score of news. Pinke'^'
died a martyr to the bottle the beginning of January. George
Smith is married to Aurora'^' ; James Taylori*) to Miss Philips.
" The war has been truely fatal to our officers. The flowers
of our army have been untimely cut off, those indeed who might
justly be called so. Alas ! my dear friend, how can I tell you
what I have suffered on this occasion ! My invaluable friend,
poor Hector Mackay, is no more. It is impossible to express
to you how much I valued him, or what I feel at this time at
the loss of him ; which you also have reason to regret, as I had
placed your nephew under his tuition, and he really took all
the care of him that he could of his brother. Captain Gee
(who married Miss Carter), and Captain Villiers Fitzgerald,
with many others, have fallen in the same cause.
" We all wish most heartily for peace. Trade is exceedingly
dull : the Nabob's payments to his creditors at an end, and in
short, in short, we are in a situation by no means pleasing . . .
(1) Charles Bourchier.
^2) Thomas Alured Pincke, a free merchant.
(3) Margaret Aurora Munro.
{*) James Taylor, a civil servant of 1764, married Ann Phillips,
No. 69.] 96
"Carterd' Sadleir'^) Mrs. Campbell,'^) Calland**) and family
return to England by this ship : of the last you will hear more
from Mr. Bourchier ...
" W. M. -GOODLAD."
[Holograph, 4j pp., Mo.]
[No. 70.]
Robert Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.
1769, March 17th. London. Received 3rd September. —
" My dear Goodlad, In future I promise you to be a much
better correspondent, which hitherto has not been' the case.
Interruption and dissipation are so much in fashion that it has
been difficult in this great town to keep an hour to oneself.
I have many friends besides yourself to whom I ought to make
a better apology.
" I have now before me your letter of the 12th May,(^' which
conveys to me the true state of affairs, that state which I always
dreaded. To carry on such a war required the greatest abilities
in the commanding officer, and the highest consideration in
laying in provisions. Nizam was too long and too much
distressed on his march to be of any service to the alliance ; and
unless he could have been supplied with money, the consequence
must be his getting it from Hyder Naig. I hope the ship which
we daily expect will give us better advices. If we could have
kept our ground at Orior, I should have concluded the war in
a fair way of being finished. You have attributed our want of
success to the right cause. Many here are of the same opinion,
but those who have it only in their power to remedy that defect
do not chuse to show the world that they could be mistaken."
The Governor and Mr. Call have both incurred the displeasure
of the Directors. When they leave for England, I request that
Wynch, Morse and yourself may take their places as my
attorneys. Withecombe's money you sl^ould remit to me as
soon as you receive it. The Company would like to cut off
the resources of the Nawab's creditors, but legal opinion is
against them. They have appointed a secret Committee of
Inquiry, which will be occupied two or three years, by which
time I hope most of the Nawab's debts will be paid. " You
may remember that I always shuddered at the Nabob's debt,
and I shall be happy when I hear the creditors are out of
danger.
(1) Roger Carter, late Governor of Bencoolen, Sumatra.
(2) Antljony Sadleir entered the Madras civil service in 1760. As Resident of
Ingeram he was suspended for oppressing the natives, but was reinstated. Admitted
to Council in 1780, he delivered so trenchant a minute on the inaction of Whitehill's
Government during Haidar All's invasion of the Carnatic that he was again sus-
pended. In 1783 he was employed on missions to the French at Cuddalore and
to Tipu at Mangalore. In the following year he quarrelled with Lord Macartney
at the Council table, and fought a duel with him in which the Governor was wounded.
Sadleir was ultimately transferred to Masulipatam, where he died in 1793.
(3) Mrs. Donald Campbell.
(4) John Calland. Vide No. 34, p. 55. note 3.
(5) No. 52, p. 77.
97 [No. 70.
" Inclosed is a letter to Moodu Kisna,(i) who is desired with
you to settle a certain affair. Royala Punt,(2) formerly Renter
of St. Thome, Devecotah, &c.,says he was turned out soon after
my departure, and wants some presents which he made for
that reason to be returned. I never in my life asked any man
for a present, and those he gave me were so large that indeed
they astonished me, viz., one thousand pagodas when he rented
Munnimunglum from the Nabob's manager, one thousand
when I came to the Government, and, long after he had taken
the above farms for five years, I think six or seven thousand
more — Moodu Kisna knows which. Of the latter sum I am
willing to return him so much back as was unexpired of his
term, dividing the latter sum into five ; but this must be done
in a judicious manner, and that nothing of it may ever transpire.
In short, more or less I leave it to you and Moodu Kisna to
settle on any terms confidentially, and to receive the amount
from my attornies, to whom I have mentioned it but very
slightly. I am sure during my whole government I never sought
or intended to oppress any man. And yet I apprehend some
European must have forced him to make this demand.
" I recommend my nephew Tom to your care and protection.
The Directors promised he should be the first on the list, and they
made him the last. In this country all is party, and poor Tom
is involved, though his unkle never meddles further than to give
his single vote ... All our little family, one boy and two girls,
are very well. I am still unsettled both in town and country :
indeed in this country it requires good management to live
within bounds ... I am ever, my dear Billy, your sincere and
affectionate friend,
"RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 71. J
[Captain] Thomas Madge to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, May 16th. EUore. — For the last six months anarchy
and confusion have reigned in the Carnatic. " As the communica-
tion betwixt our Settlements has been so often interrupted by
Hyder's cavalry, together with the great care taken by the
Gentlemen at Madrass to prevent any correspondence to be
carried on concerning the situation of public affairs, most people
chose not to write at all rather than run the risque of their letters
being stopt and opened at Madrass, or even of being suspected
(1) Muttukrishna Mudali succeeded ' Paupa Braminy,' jun., in 1749 as Company's
Interpreter. In 1754 he accompanied Palk and Vansittart to Sadras as Translator
to their Mission, and detected a fraud in connexion with the grants which Dupleix
alleged had been made to him by the Subahdar of the Deccan. Muttukrishna was
Governor's Dubash to Mr. Pigot and his successors, and in 1766 founded and
endowed the Town Temple of Madras which replaced ' the great Jentue Pagoda '
of 1646. In 1771 he drew up a report on the history of the Maravars from 1500
A.D. He died in 1792.
(2) Elsewhere described as Bajah Pundit.
No. 71.] 98
the authors of any disagreeable though true reports of affairs
that might transpire in the country."
On this account I did not send you earUer the enclosed letter
of attorney regarding Cranch's affairs. The value of his estate
is still uncertain, but the amount of the legacies has been
remitted.
My judgment of the conduct of young Smerdon has proved
correct. " He had been ordered on detachment with Captain
Bellingham (i) to attack a small fort in their neighbourhood,
when he discovered such uncommon tokens of cowardice as
I am ashamed to mention. The day after the fort was reduced
(it having been abandoned by the enemy) a report prevailed
that a field engagement was soon expected ; which so much
terrified Smerdon that he immediately waited on Bellingham
and told him that he found the air did not agree with him,
neither did he by any means approve of a military life ; which
induced him to demand leave to quit the detachment
immediately in order to repair to Ellore (head quarters in the
Circars), as on his arrival there he was determined to quit
the service ! In spite of every argument that could be made
use of to dissuade him from so scandalous a step, he still
persisted in it, and accordingly left the detachment. On his
arrival at Ellore Colonel Tod ordered him to set out for Samul-
cotah, where I at the time resided, where he advised him to
consult with me before he resigned the service. It was with
much difficulty he was prevailed upon to make his appearance,
and loitered at a small village about 16 coss from Samulcotah
five or six days under the most frivolous pretences, till I was
under the necessity of threatening to bring him to Samulcotah
with a file of men : this brought him immediately. Soon after
his arrival he was appointed an ensign from Madrass, a pro-
motion that filled him with the greatest concern, as he assured
me he would never take the field again as he was sure he could
not support his character as an officer. Accordingly, on my
being ordered into the field, Smerdon writes a letter to either
Colonel Tod or the Chief at Masulipatam, in which he declares
his want of capacity and resolution for the station he had been
promoted to, and therefore begs leave to quit the service before
he is put to any further trial ! On receipt of this letter he was
ordered to proceed immediately to Madrass, which, sore against
his inclinations, he was obliged to comply with.
" At parting from me he expressed a desire of getting
employed as a monthly Writer in the office at Madrass. But
as his passion for dissipation, together with an unconquerable
aversion to business of any kind, would not allow me to hope
he would ever be able to support himself on 10 pags. per month
when he could hardly make both ends meet with double the
(1) Captain Bellingham, who was an Ensign of the Company's European Infantry
in 1758, accompanied Caillaud's detachment to Bengal in the following year.
In 1769 he commanded a battalion of native infantry in the Northern Circars.
99 [No. 71.
sum, I advised him to think seriously of returning to his friends
by the first opportunity. Since his leaving the northward,
which was in the month of January last, I have never received
a letter from him, notwithstanding he derives at present his
sole support from my purse. All that I can learn of him is
from the accounts sometimes sent me by a friend at Madrass, who
informs me he has been ordered by the Governor and Council
to go to Europe by the present opportunity. I have, however,
applied to Mr. Bourchier for leave for him to remain at Madrass
till the arrival of my unkle's ship, when I shall ship him off
immediately. To this the Governor has consented. I am
sorry to assure you that he is not indued with one good or even
neutral qualification,' and what his unhappy father will do with
him on his return to England I cannot divine . . ."
Of affairs in the Carnatic you will hear from other sources.
" Our reputation at present seems to be at a very low ebb, as
we have experienced such a terrible reverse of fortune during
the last ten months of the war as has put such an indelible blot
on our arms and councils as will require many years' prudent
administration, and as many well conducted successful
campaigns, to wipe off before our affairs can be restored to
that flourishing condition in which you left them.
" Hyder has been permitted, it is said, to make good his
bravado of granting us a peace close at the gates of Madrass.
He was, according to report, very near it with a very incon-
siderable body of horse, having by two. very long retrograde
marches given Colonel Smith the slip, and got betwixt hiin
and Madrass. He was suffered to remain very near it
unmolested, though there were at the time upwards of 300
Europeans and two battalions of seapoys in garrison ready to
push out upon him, whilst the army without, who was on the
march after him, would soon have been so near (had it not been
countermanded) as to have prevented his escape. Peace was
however concluded with him notwithstanding his situation ;
the particulars of which are most of them a profound secret,
and by their being disapproved of by the Nabob are not supposed
to be much in our favor. He has been gone off for some time
to the Mysore country, and the Gentlemen of Madrass are now
settling the distribution of the troops belonging to the Madrass
establishment in such a manner as to be in utrumque paratus
should Hyder take it into his head to renew the war and, as
he threatened, overwhelm us with Marattas from all quarters."
The troops in the Circars are to be increased to a brigade.
To the south there will be two brigades. As more subalterns
will be needed here, I have asked Mr. Call to get your nephew
and Mr. Welsford(i> included in the number, especially the
former, because his friend Mr. Wynch, who has been appointed
Chief at Masulipatam, will be able to help him.
(1) A lately arrived cadet. Cf. No. 58, p. 84.
No. 71.] 100
Our military establishment is going to ruin owing to the
assumption of all power by civiUans. " Even the Commander
in Chief will not very soon have as much authority, independent
of the civil power, as a Writer in the office." Mr. Du Pre, who
will succeed shortly as Governor, appears to be specially hostile.
A recent order prohibits correspondence between military
officers and natives unless copies of the letters are submitted
to the Presidency. This I consider a hardship. As I have little
to expect from Mr. Du Pre, and as my only friend in the Council,
Mr. Call, is about to quit India, I think of applying for leave to
England. If I should be unable to return with my present
rank, I shall purchase a troop or company in the King's service
at home.
" T. Madge."
[Holograph, 9| pp., 4io.]
[Enclosure.]
Letter of Attorney, dated Masulipatam, 11th April, 1769.
Power of Attorney granted by Captain Thomas Madge, one
of the executors of the will of Peter Cranch, formerly lieutenant
in H.M.'s 79th regiment and afterwards lieutenant in the East
India Company's service, authorizing " Robert Palk of Ashburton
in the County of Devon, Esquire," to be his attorney in all
matters respecting the executorship. (Signed) T. Madge.
Witnessed by J[ohn] L[ewin] SmiTH, Chief of Masulipatam,
and John Whitehill.
[2| pp. demy. Wax seal with arms and crest.]
[No. 72.]
Mrs. Jane Moi^e to [Robert Palk, Esq.]
[Endorsed in Palk's hand.] " Mrs. Morse, 1st June 1769.
Answered 16th March, 1770."
1769, June 1st. Fort St. George. — " I think with you, dear
Sir, Mr. Van has done well in the purchas he has made at Black
Heath. It is convenient for many reasons ; they have a
growing family, and oeconomy is highly necessary ... I am
glad to hear Mr. Hastings is coming to succeed Mr. Dupre'^)
for the good of the place, and we shall have a very agreeable
friend . . .
" The painter has not done Mr. Van justice : he has made
him look stiff and grave, which I am sure he is not in his nature.
There is a strong resemblance of Harry's features, but I think
the complexion too dark. Mr. Stonehouse'^) has wrote Mr.
James Bourchier that he has a brother and sister'^' coming
out in these ships for Bengal at the desire of Mr. George and
his lady, and that he was at a loss how to provide for the young
(1) As Second Member of Council when Du Pr^ became Governor. Hastings
arrived in September, 1769.
(2) Lieutenant Tliomas Stonhouse of the Bengal establishment, brother of Mrs,
George Vansittart.
(3) Lucia Stonhouse.
101 [No. 72.
lady during her stay here ; on which Mr. James made
appHcation to me, thinking Mr. George might have wrote to
us about it. I told him our Midnapore friends had not, but
that he might depend on our receiving the lady into our house
and shewing her every civility in our power during her stay
in Madrass ...
[Holograph, 3 pp.. Mo.]
"Jane Morse.
[No. 73.]
Jos[iAs] Du Pre to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, June 15th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, I will not
attempt to give you an account of our unfortunate transactions
in the course of the war ; you will have it at large, I dare say,
from some of your other friends, and you will find that, far
from depriving Hyder of the power of doing mischief, we have
been brought to disgrace. Though our armies, with a good
General at their head, may almost command victory over any
country enemy who will risk a battle, there are other ways by
which we may be overcome. We may be ruined by expence.
That the peace we have made will be blamed there can be no
doubt ; ill success can never share any other fate. I am clear,
however, all our circumstances considered, that there was no
alternative but that or worse. We must now bend all our
endeavors to restore our finances, which are reduced to worse,
much worse, than nothing.
" What ! is there to be no end to wars and rumours of wars
in Leadenhall Street ? For my part I have been endeavouring
to lay in a small store of philosophy on that subject ever since
I was appointed. If I am permitted to stay here a few years,
'tis well, I will do the best I can ; and if I should be invited
home, why that too will be well, for it will save me an infinite
deal of trouble, which I fear, as things are, will procure but
little honor and Httle profit.
" Your nephew, I understand, after having tried and very
well endtired a fatiguing campaign, seems to prefer the sword
to the quill. He has not yet made a decisive choice. He shall
have my support in either, for I hear he has merit. Mr. Morse
will always find me ready to give all the assistance that I can
with propriety in your affairs or his own.
" I hope Mrs. Palk and your little ones enjoy good health.
I wish I could send them a few rays of our sun. We could spare
them, for I have never known so hot and dry a season. We are
burnt to cynders. Mrs. D. sends her compliments ; she has
lately presented me with another girl.
" Mr. Ballard'i) ! Thank God he is not here. I should be
sorry not to take notice of any one recommended by General
(1) A oadet. Cf, No. 62, p. 91.
No. 73.] 102
Lawrence. I am told that he is a very bad character : he got
into some scrape here and fled to Bengal.
" I beg leave to make my salam to General and Mrs. Caillaud.(i>
" Have some mercy, I pray you, upon poor America, or you
will repent it by and by. Keep off a French war a few years
longer if possible, that your affairs in the East as well as the
West may be better prepared : — I am speaking now to the
Senator.
" I wish vou happiness. What can you wish for more !
" Jos. Du Pre."
[Holograph, 3 pp., Mo.]
[No. 74.]
Nic[holas] Morse to Robert Palk, Esq."
1769, June 26th. Fort St. George. — I am of opinion that
Harry Vansittart's purchase of a house at Greenwich is well
judged. His coming abroad again will depend on circumstances.
The want of currency in Bengal is affecting both revenue and
trade, and the Government there have ordered the coining of
gold mohurs. The causes of the deficiency of silver are natural,
and little improvement can be expected while the country
remains disturbed. I regret the frequent changes in the
ministry at home. " Luxury and licentiousness were never
at so great a higth, and the nation in general [is] much altered
for the worse.
" Mr. Bourchier talks of leaving India next January. The
appointment of Mr. Hastings next to Mr.' Du Pre I find had been
determined in the Court of Directors. They are happy in having
so worthy and capable a person in their service, as the present
state of India requires those of such a character ; for though
there has been a peace made with Hydro Naigue, yet there is
no dependance on him ; but rather that he might joyn the
French on any rupture with them, as it is certain there are
connections between them, and it may be apprehended that
Sujah Doulah might be ready to make use of any advantage
of time and circumstances. The Morattas are powerful and
always acting for interest ; and on the whole the English may
esteem themselves happy if they can preserve what they have,
(1) John Oaillaud arrived in India with a British detacliment in 1753, and was
commissioned Captain in the Madras Army. He served under Lawrence in Trichin-
opoly, and from 1755 to 1759 commanded in the Southern districts. During that
period he operated against Mahfuz Khan in Tinnevelly and Madura and reUeved
Trichinopoly, which was besieged by d'Auteuil. At the siege of Madras by Lally,
Caillaud commanded the field force at Chiugleput, and fought a vigorous action at
St. Thomas's Mount in February, 1759. Appointed to command the troops in
Bengal, he saw active service in Bihar in 1760 and 1761. Returning to Madras,
Colonel Caillaud reduced Nellore in 1762 and laid siege to Arnee. In the following
year he became Brigadier General, and in 1766 took possession of the Circars, which
had been ceded to the British by the Mogul. To placate the Nizam, Caillaud was
deputed to Hyderabad, where he concluded a treaty under which the Company
agreed to pay a tribute for the new territory. On retirement he settled in Oxford-
shire, where he died in 1810.
103 [No. 74.
to do which will require great care and circumspection, and to
be prepared. Had a peace been made in September last, the
Carnatic would not have suffered in the unhappy manner it
has, nor Hydro boasted that it was now his time to do it.
The terms are not yet made public, although concluded six weeks
ago . . . .
" Mr. Call is far from being well, yet cannot resolve to go to
Europe on this ship. He and the military have not agreed, and
I think if the Deputies had not been sent it might have been
better ; at least there would not have been so much uneasiness
in the camp. As to the late war, much has been wrote to Europe
by the Dutton, and as to the peace, there will be a great deal
to say by this ship from different hands . . .
" The justices and jury at the last sessions had some disputes :
the first sworn in were soon dismissed, and another set sworn
in. Messrs. Majendie(i>, Benfield'^), and Marsden<^' are bound
in recognizances of £1,000 to appear at the Court of King's Bench
on Michaelmas Term, 1771.
" The advices by the Egmont occasioned the Gentlemen at
home to put some treasure on each ship bound to China, which
was well judged . . . The supracargoes have liberty to draw
for £200,000 on England at 5s. per dollar, and will greatly help
persons in their remittances home of their money.
" Your nephew, I believe, has not yet determined about the
civil or military : I shall therefore refer you to him for an
explanation. He seemed apprehensive that his allowances in
the civil might not be equal to the other ; on which I assured
him that your attorneys would make up that to him, which
might be about [Pag^] 12 more to his diet money, the Ensign's
pay being, with the allowance, about 20 pagodas per month ;
and that I did not doubt but you would hereafter order him
some money to assist him in business. I have said much to
him on the occasion, and endeavoured to persuade [him] not
to miss the opportunity of being in the civil, as what you had
obtained for him with some trouble, and as the best way of
his getting forward in life. He is a very good lad, sedate and
well disposed, and has given much satisfaction to his superior
officers, and may do well in either way."
I have arranged matters with all the correspondents of the
House, and shall relinquish business as soon as the accounts are
closed, so the next despatch will be from Mr. Hollond and his
associates. I am quite tired out, " finding it impossible to
satisfy every one. You are sensible of the trouble I have had,
and the difficult times I have had to negotiate their affairs in,
which others are not. I never kept back any money that could
be remitted, and yet find some of them think we have ..."
"NIC. Morse."
[Holograph, 6^ pp., Mo.]
(1) Andrew Majendie. Vide No. 57, p. 83, note i.
(2) Paul Benfleld. Vide No. 78, p. 109, note 1.
(3) Thomas Marsden. Vide No. 78, p. 109. note 2.
104
[No. 75.]
J[ohn] M[axwell] Stone to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, June 27th. Fort St. George. — " A peace was in April
last concluded with the formidable Hyder : I wish I could say
that we had compelled him to it. The particulars of all publick
affairs you will no doubt have from Mr. Bourchier, whose
situation for this long time past has been truly to be pitied.
Vexations and disappointments seem to have been his constant
attendants, though I am convinced no man could deserve them
less if a truly good heart and an earnest desire to promote the
Company's interest could keep him free from them.
" Your nephew Tom has been in some doubt whether to
continue in the military or accept of the civil service. Indeed
I was not surprized at it, as he seems to have a turn for a soldier's
life, and during the last campaign, which has been a very severe
one, has acquired his share of honor and the esteem of every
officer in the army. He has, however, at last determined on
the civil, and this day signed his covenants, though not without
some reluctance.
" J. M. Stone."
" P.S. — You will no doubt have heard of the death of our
poor friend Griffiths. Mr. Thomas'^' and I have the management
of his affairs, which, with your kind assistance to him, will I
hope turn out a sufficient provision for his children . . . We
expect one of them may arrive in India this season . . ."
[Holograph, 3 pp., flscp.]
[No. 76.]
Nic[holas] Morse to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, June 28th. Fort St. George.— Mr. Bourchier has
decided to leave India next January, and I think it will be well
if Mr. Call accompanies him. " The times at home and abroad
are far from giving that satisfaction persons here have long
wanted." Your nephew has signed covenants as a Writer.
"Nic. Morse."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4to.]
[No. 77.]
Rama Kisna to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, June 28th. Fort St. George.—" I heard Mr. Hastings
comes out this year for this place to succeed Mr. Dupre in the
Government. (2) I beg you will recommend me to his protection
if I have any business, which is very necessary on account of
my village, which you was so kind as to obtain from the Nabob
for the use of my Charity Choultry at Checrecoad, to this time
by Mr. Bourchier's favor going on without any interruption . . .
'D The Rev. John Thomas, Chaplain at Fort St. George.
(2) As Second Member of CounciZ when Du Pr6 becomes Governor.
105 [No. 77.
" Your old friend Mooperala Kistnaia's son begs leave to
present his humble respects to you and your family."
"Rama Kisna."
[Holograph, IJ p., flscp.]
[No. 78.]
Ch[aele]s Bourchier to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, June 29th. Fort St. George. " I am infinitely obliged
to you, my dear friend, for many of your most acceptable
favors, and for so warmly espousing my cause with the Court of
Directors. They did me but justice in believing . . . that I
was doing my best for them, as I can with truth say my sole
view in continuing the warr was the interest and welfare of the
Company ; and as the reducing the power of Hyder AUee was
a rneasure strongly recommended by Lord Clive for the security
of the Company's possessions in the Carnateck as well as the
Nabob's dominions — a measure also repeatedly urged by the
present Committee in Bengal, and which in my own judgment
and of my colleagues here [was] of essential consequence to
the Company's prosperity — I cannot help being vexed that
they should think me and some others so culpable in adopting
it when there was the greatest probability of carrying our point.
I cannot however be surprized that they should be so much
out of humor ; for accountable as they are now become to
Parliament for all transactions, to avoid any reproach they
may apprehend, they no doubt will load us with censure ; and
should we escape it this year we shall inevitably be dismissed
the next when they are acquainted how much the scene has
changed since the Egmont left us, and with the distressful
situation the Carnateck, the Nabob's and the Company's affairs
have been reduced to by the continuance of the warr. I have
therefore determined to leave India next January at all events,
and hope to be happy amongst you and the rest of my friends
in England towards the end of summer if the Directors will let
me be at peace there ; but as I have reason to believe an ill -
Starr presided at my birth, I have apprehensions that they will
give me some trouble after I am got home.
" We have at length happily put an end to the enormous
expences occasioned by the warr by concluding a peace with
Hyder, who, having led Colonel Smith a dance of near a month,
had the address, after drawing him as farr as Villaporum, to
slip by him, and making a march of no less than 45 miles the
first day, got so much ahead of our army that he reached the
Mount three days before they got the length of Vendaloor.
On his arrival there he wrote to me that he was come so near
to make peace with us himself. In the extremities we were
reduced to we gladly embraced the opportunity of opening the
Conference again ; for the country being entirely at his mercy ;
our army being incapable of protecting it or bringing him to a
No. 78.] 106
decisive action, and daily diminishing by sickness and fatigue ;
the promised succors of horse by the Nabob and Mora Row <i'
not arrived, nor likely to be for some months, and our distress
for money great ; our whole dependance . being on the Nabob,
who though he promised largely we had doubts of his performing ;
and it being also the Company's positive orders to make peace,
we were under the necessity of doing it almost at all events.
I will not trouble you with a detail of all that passed on the
occasion, though I have been very particular therein to both
Mr. Rous<^' and Mr. Suhvan, and probably you may know from
the latter ... I hope therefore you will be satisfied by my teUing
you that after five days spent in the most tiresome and vexatious
discussions with the Vackeels that were sent in after Mr. Du
Pre had been with Hyder one whole day at the Mount, the
articles were settled of which you have a copy inclosed.'^'
Besides which, the Nabob was obliged to submit to consent
that all of the Novoyt cast <*' who were in the Carnateck should
be permitted to leave it if such was their choice. As this article
the Nabob thought affected his honor, it was agreed to be left
out of the written treaty."
We also agreed, after the treaty was signed, to give up to
Hyder some stores at Colar, as we understood from Captain
Kelly,<'> who commanded there, that the place could not hold
out beyond the 10th April. As a fact, it held out until the
treaty was signed, and we are therefore holding an inquiry
into Captain Kelly's conduct.
" As you are well acquainted with the Nabob's rooted
antipathy to Hyder, and how ambitious he is, yeu will not be
surprized that he should be so very averse to our making the
peace as he has expressed himself on several occasions. It is,
however, very extraordinary that these foibles should so much
get the better of his reason as to blind him to his own interest
in the highest degree. He saw our united efforts could not
prevent the daily ravages of his enemy, and that every hour
we delayed coming to an accommodation subjected him and
his wretched subjects to the severest losses without the least
glimpse of hope that we could find any other means of preventing
it than by concluding a peace ; yet he wished it could have
been avoided ; would not consent to have his name inserted
(11 Morari Eao. Vide No. 19, p. 33, note 4,
(2) Thomas Rous, a Director from 1745 to 1771, who had been several times
Chairman.
(3) Not found.
(4) Novoyt, Navayat, a new-comer, from Skt. nava, new, implies a Muhammadan
of mixed descent. Tlie descendants and adherents of the former Carnatic dynasty,
which ended with Nawab Safdar Ali in 1744, were commonly known as Navayats.
Some of these adherents, like the family of Ohanda Sahib, had been detained by
Muhammad Ali, and Haidar, whose mother was a Navayat, insisted on their being
granted permission to leave the Carnatic.
(5) Robert Kelly entered the Madras Infantry in 1760, and became Captain in
1765. He acted as Chief Engineer at the siege of Mah6 in 1779, and commanded
a brigade under Fullarton in 1783. Colonel Kelly died at Arnee in 1790 when in
command of the Centre Army.
107 [No. 78.
as a contracting Power ; and, though he promised to authorize
us to act for him in making peace for the Carnateck by a letter,
we have never yet been able to obtain such an authority from
him. He has indeed been so very refractory lately that I have
at times had infinite trouble with him, and I am very suspicious
he has somebody he places a confidence in that puts false
notions into his head, which induce him to act so very differently
to what seemed to be his former disposition ; and who knows
it may be the author of the curious pamphlet wherein you and
I and Call are extolled for being such excellent cooks.
" The apprehension that the Company will in time take his
country into their hands (as has been done in Bengal) to clear
off their debt, now no less than 12| lacks of pagodas, besides
the expenses of the warr amounting to 14<^ lacs more (a sum you
will be amazed at, and which I fear I shall be hange'd for :
however, so it is, and I must abide by the consequences) alarms
him beyond measure and throws him into the utmost despair.
He is nevertheless meditating at times the means to clear off
his debt to the Company, and promises to effect it in three
years if peace subsists so long. Indeed I suspect he must have
a hoard somewhere, as the Company and individuals assisted
largely sometimes towards defraying his expenses, during
which interval the revenues of the country were collected by
him ; and this I am the readier induced to believe from his
having at times talked of discharging his debt in even 18 months.
Possibly if the Company propose any measures that may be
dissatisfactory to him and that may increase tfie suspicions
he has already entertained, he may exert himself and pay off
what he owes them. With respect to the charges of the warr,
notwithstanding he made an agreement with us, which is entered
in Consultation, to bear them all, provided we left the manage-
ment of the conquered countrys to him and the produce at the
time they were so, with all the plunder taken, he now disputes
the matter and says his agreement was conditional that we
took Seringapatam ; than which nothing is more untrue. We
have left this circumstance to the Company's determination ;
and as they had an interest in the warr, which was begun in
consequence of our possessing the Circars, they ought in reason
[to] take to themselves some portion of the charge of it ; and
I think that ought to be at least one third, as the value of their
possessions bears about that proportion to the amount of the
Nabob's . . .
" Hastings's superceding Call is a mortifying circumstance.
Call, however, will go home as soon as he possibly can settle
his affairs, but I believe he will not do so before me . . .
" I wrote you in duplicate by the Dutton, which my friend
Carter carried, to put one packet on board any ship he might
meet with in the voyage. I therein gave you a full account of
Calland's malevolent intentions. What you mention of the
letter you received from him and his declarations therein
No. 78.] 108
confirm my suggestions. I hope, agreable to what I proposed
to you, that you have found means to prevent his executing his
vile purpose ; for in the humor the Directors seem to be at
present a hint only froni him will be sufficient to awaken all
their sus.picions, which may occasion such orders as will affect
numbers both at home and abroad. Nothing has been done
here yet relative to the enquiry ordered last year, as Ruccun
ud Dowlah, the Souba's minister, who had the principal hand
in concluding the Hydrobad Treaty, 'i' has been absent ; but as
he is soon to return there, he will be applied to on the subject.
I shrewdly suspect from advices I have seen that further
scrutinies will be ordered this year from home, and I wish I
may not have trouble thereby.
" Rajahpundit'^' is an infamous rascall, and so much involved
in debt to the Nabob as well as others that he is now under
confinement with the Nabob on that account. I have talked
with Moodoo Kistnah and communicated what you desired of
me to Goodlad : by the next dispatch I shall let you know what
has been resolved on ; hitherto nothing, as there has been little
opportunity for it.
" It has been with some difficulty your nephew Tom has been
prevailed on to lay down the sword. He has been an Ensign
some time, and [the] being reduced from 17 pagodas to P. 8 23f.
per month was a powerful argument against relinquishing it.
He promised to make a good officer, being fond of his profession,
but is- convinced that his future prospects of advantage are
more extensive in the civil than the military. He is a sedate,
sensible youth, and much regarded in the corps he belonged to.
Could he be assisted a few years with the addition of 10 pagodas
per month to his writer's stipend, it would be very acceptable,
and little enough to keep him out of debt, as you know . . .
" By the way of China [I] shall find means to make
remittances to you my attorneys of at least £30,000 on account
of myself and Jim ; '^) and by the end of next year shall have
in England, I hope, with what is already in your hands, about
£60,000, the mode of remittance being already secured. How
much more we are possessed of I am yet uncertain, but I shall
set tight to work as soon as the Thames is sailed to settle all
my accounts and dispose of outstanding concerns . . .
" I thank you for the house you have purchased for me,
which according to Mrs. B.'s description of it must be a very
excellent one. I wish the price may be not too great for my
fortune ; but if it should appear to be so, I imagine I can always
have it in my power to dispose of it without much loss.
" Besides the vexation our late troublesome situation gave
me, we have had further cause for it from the refractory
behavior of a Grand Jury, who treated us so contemptuously
(1) The Treaty of 1768 relating to the Circars.
i2! Elsewhere called Koyala Punt. Cf. No. 70, p. 97.
(3) James Bourohier.
109 [No. 78.
on the Bench that we were at length put to the disagreable
necessity of ordering three of them, Benfield,'!' Majendie and
Marsden,(2) to prison because they refused to enter into a
recognizance to appear and answer for their misconduct before
the King's Bench . . . but which they were released from on
signing the recognizance. They threaten us with great damages,
which has occasioned us to be very particular in an address to
the Court of Directors on the occasion ; and I am so much
persuaded we have done no more than we can answer for that
I am perfectly easy on the occasion. However, I shall be glad
if you will make some enquiry into the matter at the India
House, and write me a line to meet me at St. Helena in what
light the matter is taken at home, as well as any other intelligence
that materially concerns me . . .
" Chs- Bourchier."
[Holograph, 13| pp., Mo.'\
[No. 79.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, June 30th. Fort St. George.—" You will learn from
other hands in what manner our war with Hyder has ended.
Who ever thought that the intended conquerors of the Mysore
country would be reduced to make peace at the gates of their
own capital ! 0[h,] my dear friend, how greatly is the face of
affairs altered since you left us ; instead of a flourishing
Investment and full treasury we can scarcely maintain our
troops, and are over head and ears in debt. Mr. Bourchier's
Government has been truely unfortunate from the beginning :
it has not been attended with one favorable circumstance, and
he is indeed most heartily sick of it. The Coast and Bay ships
threaten us with a chaubuke.'^' He is quite prepared for it,
and seems fully to expect to return a private gentleman. In
good truth I am most heartily sorry for him, and I know so
(1) Paul Benfield was appointed by the Court of Directors to be Ciyil Architect
and Engineer at Madras, where he arrived in 1764. He was employed under Call
on the new works at Fort St. George with the rank of Lieutenant, though he was
borne on the list of civil servants. In 1769 he resigned his post of Engineer to
become contractor for the fortifications of Black Town. This work, which involved
the construction of 3J miles of rampart, was practically finished in 1770. In that
year Benfield was dismissed the service for factious behaviour. Though readmitted ,
lie was guilty of disobedience in 1772, and was suspended. Benfield next contracted
for the new works at Port St. George, and was engaged on them until 1776. He
lent large sums of money to the Nawab, secured on assignments of the revenues
of Tanjore. On the rendition of Tanjore to the Raja by Lord Pigot in 1776 Benfield
advanced claims, which produced dissensions in Council and led to the arrest of
the Governor. Benfield was suspended by the Directors and recalled to England,
but he was eventually restored to the service. In 1781 he was appointed a member
of the Committee of Assigned Revenue. He finally left India in 1788, lost his
fortune by speculation, and died in Paris in 1810.
(2) Thomas Marsden entered the service as Ensign in 1767. Two years later, as
Lieutenant and Sub-Engineer, he was engaged on a survey and valuation of Black
Town for purposes of assessment of a fortification tax. He died at Tripassore
in 1771.
(3) Chaubuke, a castigation from the Directors by the next ships ; from Hind,
chahulc, a whip.
No. 79.] 110
well how anxious he has ever been to act for the best that he
is still more to be pitied. If the changes we expect should take
place, it will be almost sufficient to deter any one from wishing
to become a man of power in these parts, and yet I confess my
thoughts turn very much that way. That said pinacle has
certainly many charms, and it is doubtless attended with its
uneasinesses ; but, take it all in all, it is a desirable station. It is
what I do and will aspire to, and what I hope one time or other
to attain ; but pray tell me, how am I to accomplish it ? . . .
" I am apt to think from the conduct of the French that we
shall not long continue at peace. Pondicherry is fortifying
with all diligence, and 'tis said considerable forces are expected
out this year. At Chandernagore too they would fain make
themselves secure, and under pretence of a drain have dug
a noble ditch fifty feet wide and twenty feet deep, and the earth
being thrown towards the town forms an excellent fortification.
But this, I trust, is demolishing by this time, for if they will not
do it themselves, our Gentlemen at Calcutta are determined
to do it for them.
" Every thing is quiet in Bengal. You must remember what
an enmity subsisted between the King and Soujah ul Dowlah.
They are now to all appearance perfectly reconciled, and after
paying each other a visit, Soujah has undertaken to place his
Majesty on the throne of Delly. They are now at Illahabad,
but a circumstance has lately happened which it is thought may
delay, if not entirely put off, his Majesty's journey : — Soujah
had laid a plan for the assassination of Munire ud dowlah, 'i'
the King's old and greatest favorite. A faithful Coffree'^)
saved his life by receiving the blow, which cost him his arm,
and 'tis thought this may open his Majesty's eyes.
" Our friend Mr. B. showed me that part of a letter from you
relative to Rajah Pundat, and we shall soon take that matter
into consideration. However, he is so much indebted to the
Nabob for the countries he rented, to the Company and to
individuals, that a compromise would be of little service to his
creditors.
" Your nephew Tom has executed his covenants as Writer,
a good deal against his inclination, I assure you, for he seems
greatly to prefer a military life : however, I hope to make a
good Company's servant of him . . . Lewin Smith and Mrs.
Mackay'^) leave us by this ship, and are just gone over the surf.
The Bourchiers, Call and Ardley**' will get away as soon as
they can. Miss Mulkirke is married to Captain Bruce. Barker
and Raitt'^' died lately. . .
" W. M. GOODLAD."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Uo.]
(1) Munir-ud-daula was Naib Vizier in 1767.
(2' Coffree, a negro, from Ar. kaflr, infidel.
(3) Sarah Mackay, nde Stratton, wife of George Maclcay, junior Member of Council.
(4) Samuel Ardley. Vide No. 52, p. 78, nolo 2.
(6) Thomas Raitt was a civil servant of 1763,
Ill
[No. 80.]
Ab[rahaJm de Paiba to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, November 3rd. London. — I have been unable to see
you lately to tell you about business done. I sold your diamonds
last month to Messrs. Gumperts & Hynians at 7s. 9d. per pago-
da, excepting the large stones, which will be disposed of later,
and have paid in at Lee & Ayton's £4,100 in Bills of Exchange.
" Ab"- de Paiba."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo.]
[No. 81.]
Robert Palk to [William Martin Goodlad.]
1769, November 5th. London. Received 1st May, 1770.
— " My Dear Billy, Your letter of the 11th March'^' recording
the unhappy state of affairs on the Coast gives me the most
sensible concern and uneasiness. We have gone on from
victory to victory without reflecting how the whole was to be
preserved and governed, and what fatal consequences a reverse
must have involved us in. When Nizam Aly settled with
Hyder, certainly we should have done the same. We should
then have given all India a strong impression of our power,
and probably have secured the Carnateck from future invasions.
As it is, I dread and am very anxious for the next accounts.
" Your kindness to Mr. Helling as well as my nephew has
been very great. The latter I should rather have continued
in the military, but his mother, reflecting on the loss of so many
of his comatrymen, will not hear of it ; and so I suppose he
brings up the rear of the Writers, a piece of revenge in Direction
which I did not deserve, and owing to those perpetual struggles
at the India House, where the parties have for some years
been violent to the last degree. At Mr. Vansittart's departure'^'
a Coalition had taken place, which lasted only a few days, but
I still hope it may be renewed ; though I know little of the
matter, being just arrived from a six weeks' tour into Devonshire.
" On Bourchier and Call's coming away I have desired that
Wynch and you may succeed them as my attorneys. I have
another copy of the letter from Rajah Pundit, and hope that
long ere now a proper gratuity has been made him, as I had
rather be at any expence than that any man should say I had
done him any injustice.
" Great preparations I find are making to send you every
assistance. I am sorry the loss of so many officers makes a
reinforcement of them necessary . . . The General and Mrs.
Palk remember you must cordially. I am ever, my dear friend,
most affectionately yours,
"Robt. Palk."
, [Holograph, 2 pp., 4to.J
(1) No. 69, p. 94,
(2) Henry Vansittart sailed for India in the Aurora in September. 1769.
112
[No. 82.]
General Sir R[ober]t Barker(I) to R[obert] Palk,
Esq.
1769, November 19th. Calcutta. — " Sir, I have had the
pleasure to receive your letters of the 21st and 28th of February,
1768, which were delivered me by Messrs. Everet and Fitzgerald.
Both these gentlemen are in the Artillery Corps, and are much
esteemed by their commanding officers. I have as yet had no
opportunity of doing them any service.
" I hope you and Mrs. Palk have enjoyed a good state of
health since your return from India. I beg my compliments
may be acceptable to her, and am. Sir, with regard, your very
obedient humble servant,
" Rt Barker."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4to.]
[No. 83.]
George Vansittart to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, December 3rd. Calcutta. — " Dear Palk, The Grafton
brought me a short letter from you without date, but written
I imagine in March, and we have since received news overland
of my brother's and Mr. Sulivan's success at the April election.
On many accounts I rejoice much at this event, but particularly
from the hope that his directorship will pave the way for his
return to the government of Bengal . . ."
My family has lately been increased by the birth of a second
boy, who has been named Edward. We return to-day to
Midnapore. I have your letter appointing your nephew(^> to
be your attorney jointly with me. " The partnership which
I have entered into with Darell and Hollond puts it out of my
power to act separately from them. Vansittart, Darell &
Hollond must therefore represent me as one of your attornies
and your nephew as the other.
(1) Robert Barker came to India about 1749. In August 1753, when a lieutenant
of Madras Artillery, he was employed as an Engineer at the request of Colonel
Caroline Scott, the Engineer-General. Barker's fine draughtsmanship is attested
by a plan of Fort St. George executed by him in October, 1753, whioli is preserved
in the King's Library of the British Museum. In 1756 Captain Barker commanded
the Artillery with Clive's expedition to Bengal, and served at the battle of Plassey.
As Major he accompanied Draper's force to Manila in the same capacity, and was
knighted in England for his services. Returning to India, Colonel Sir Robert
Barker was posted to Bengal, where he commanded one of the three brigades of
the army, and in 1770 he became provincial Commander-in-Chief. He had great
influence with the Nawab Vizier of Oudh, and in his interest negotiated in 1772 the
Treaty of Eyzabad with the RohUlas against the Marattas. Disapproving of
Hastings's army reforms, General Barker resigned the service and went home in
1771. He entered Parliament, was created a baronet in 1781, and died in 1789,
(8) Robert Palk, jun,
113 [No. 83.
" General Smith (^' is going .home upon this ship (the
Hampshire). Mr. Verelst*^) will follow. in a few days upon the
Lioness. The General has picked up a very large fortune, and
as he has abilities and application, and seems disposed to busy
himself in India matters, will probably have a good deal of
weight when he gets to England. Harry and he were connected
formerly : I hope they will be able to agree.
" I am appointed Supervisor of Dinagepore, but I am not to
go there till the end of February . . . My Residency of Midnapore
is to remain in my possession ..."
[Holograph, 3 pp., flscp.] " George Vansittart."
[No. 84.]
Robert Palk, jun., to Robert Palk, Esq.
1769, December 22nd. Calcutta. — Dear Sir, I enclose bills
drawn on Mr. Pybus for £540 on account of the estate of Captain
John Adams, which please pay to Mrs. Eleanor Adams. (^' I
send two parcels of Soucey and Cossimbazar handkerchiefs, one
for my father,'*' to be forwarded to YoUand Hill, and the other
for Mr. Call. If you would like a pipe or two of wine, " I can
purchase very good madeira, brought here in '66 by Captain
Thomas Rous,'^' for 380 Arcot Rupees . . .
" I have nothing to mention regarding my own situation
but that I am living in Calcutta at a great expence, unemployed
and in great anxiety to hear the determination of the Court of
Directors. I hope for success now that Mr. Van, Mr. Sulivan,
&c., are in the Direction."
Since I have been in Calcutta I have been treated with much
kindness by Mr. Floyer.i*' I now stand 24th on the list, and
there are only four servants between George Vansittart and
myself.
" Robert Palk."
" P.S. — 24th December. The Governor'^' comes to town
to-day to resign his government to Mr. Cartier, although he is not
certain that he will be able to go before the end of the month."
[Holograph, 2j pp., flscp.]
(1) Richard Smith was a lieutenant on the Madras Establishment from 1753.
As captain in 1758 he commanded at Chingleput and in 1760 at Trichinopoly,
whence he attacked and seized Karur. In 1761 he resigned and sailed for England,
and three years later was appointed by the Directors to Bengal. In 1767 Colonel
Smith assumed command of the Bengal Army. He retired at the end of 1769 as
Brigadier General. He married at Madras in 1756 AmeUa, daughter of Charles
Hopkins, sometime Chief at Devikota.
(2) Vide No. 54, p. 80, note 8.
(3) Cf. No. 211, p. 220.
(« Walter Palk, of Yolland Hill, Ashburton.
f5) Thomas Bates Rous commanded the Britannia on her voyage to Bengal in
1766. He was a Director of the East India Company from 1773 to 1770.
(6) Charles Ployer, jun., entered the Madras civil service in 1755, and in 1767
was transferred to Bengal as Tenth of Council. After a visit to England in 1772
he reverted to Madras. He took an active part in the subversion of Lord Pigot's
government in 1776, and was recalled to England, In 1782 he was serving in
Guntur.
(7) H. Verelst,
H
114
[No. 85.]
1769, N.D.
" Estimate
of the Expences of the Military Establishment on the Coast of
Choromandel in 1769.
3 regiments of infantry
1 battalion of artillery, 5 companys
1 troop of cavalry I Pags. 6,99,307 or
19 battalions of seapoys and 7 ( Rs. 24,47,921.
independent companys
Lascars in all the garrisons
Of which the Nabob to be charged with
10 Carnatic battalions of seapoys
2 independent companies of seapoys
and a proportion of the las cars in the
several garrisons, all which will amount
to about
The Company's annual charge, about Pag^- 4,49,307.
[On the reverse]
" The NahoVs Agreement to pay in discharge of his debt, as follows :
In ready money by the 20th January, 1770 Pags- 5,00,000,
In money or f by ultimo June, 1770 do. 8,00,000
Soucars'(i) security -l by ultimo April, 1771 do. 10,00,000
[by ultimo June, 1771 do. 2,00,000
[Pags] 2,50,000
Pags 25,00,000
[Unsigned, Ij p., Mo.]
[No. 86.]
Lieutenant Thomas Palk to Robert Palk, Esq.
1770, January 12th. Condapillee. — " Honoured Sir, ... I
expected my brother'^' out the last season from what my mother
acquainted me in her last letter, and the accounts I heard from
cousin Thomas at Madrass. The latter informed me there was
one of our name coming out on one of the ships. But I was
agreeably disappointed, for I think he was then rather too
young to set out in the world . . . But even though he had come
out the last year in a military capacity, he would not have yet
been an officer, for out of the 50 or 60 cadetts that arrived the
last season there are not more than 6 or 8 have got com-
missions ... I am still a lieutenant, and expect to continue so
for some time, as there is now between me and a company
sixteen . . .
" Colonel Wood,(^> Captains Kelly(*) and Orton(^' were tryed
(1) Vide No 20, p. 35, note 1.
(2) John Palk.
(3) Vide No. 55, p. 82, note 2.
: (*) Vide No. 78. p. 106, note 5.
(S) Captain Roderick Orton, -when in command of the fort of Erode in December
1768, was summoned by Haidar to surrender. He went out under a safe conduct
to arrange terms, and was constrained by Haidar to sign an order to the garrison
to capitulate. He was tried by court martial in 1769 and cashiered.
115 [No. 86.
lately at Madrass by a court martial for some misconduct they
were guilty of during the late war with Hyder Ally. The former
was, I hear, charged with eight crimes. The sentence of the
court is not yet made publick in general orders . . . Most of the
3rd Regiment has been stationed at EUore ever since peace was
concluded, under the command of Lieut. Colonel Tod. He
will not remain there" long it's thought, as Colonel Hart is
expected there very soon . . .
" About 5 months since I was ordered from EUore with 4
companies of Captain Madge's battalion to the command of
this garrison . . . Captain Madge at the same time marched
with the remaining six companies and reheved Captain
Bellingham from the command of Samalcottah." The latter
goes to command the Chicacole Circar.
I have not been able to ascertain what effects Were left by
Mr. Mould, who " was drowned from on board a vessell in
Madrass roads." Mr. Bourchier resigns the chair to Mr. Du
Pre about the end of this month. When my brother arrives
I shall ask Mr. Call to get him appointed to the 3rd Regiment,
now in the Circars. " Captain Madge . . . will inform you
this season of young Mr. Smerdon's elopement from Madrass.
He took a journey there about six months since on purpose to
endeavour to get him home on some of the last ships, but he
went off before his arrival there, and has not since been heard
of I believe . . .
" Cousins Robert and Thomas are both very well. I keep a
constant correspondence with them, and heard from each of
them very lately. The latter informs me he has an intention
of paying his brother*^' a vissit this year with the two Mr. Stone-
houses. ... Be pleased to remember me most affectionately
to Mrs. Palk, and to Mr. Palk'si^) family at Ashburton . . .
" Thomas Palk."
[Holograph, 3j pp., flscp.]
[No. 87.]
Robert Palk to [his Attorneys at Madras.]
1770, January 23rd. Spring Gardens. — " Gentlemen, The
sudden departure, of the bearer, Mr. Snelling,'^) only gives me
time to say that I have received on his account £40, which I
desire may be paid to Mr. Goodlad, and that he will advance
him from time to time as occasion may require ; and if any
more should be wanted before he gets a commission, I desire
he may be supplied moderately. I must request also that Mr.
Goodlad will speak to Mr. Du Pre and Mr. Hastings to send him
to one of the out-garrisons under a good officer who will have
(1) Robert Palk, jun.
(2) Walterj,Palk.
(SKA ca^eti
No. 87.] 116
an eye to his conduct, and that my nephew Tom will take care
of him during his stay at the Presidency . . .
"RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[No. 88.]
Wakren Hastings to Robert Palk, Esq.
1770, January 29th. Fort St. George. — " Dear Sir, I have
received your favor of the 23rd June by the Lapwing, and am
much obliged to you for your good wishes. A part of these is
happily accomplished. All wars are at an end, and if there is
not the fairest prospect of the continuance of peace, there is a
very hearty inclination to it and a determination to maintain
it if possible on our side, which is the best security for.it. Our
people are yet sore of their late ill success, and are all more
anxious to secure the Company's property than to extend their
dominion or retrieve the reputation of their arms. There is
certainly some defect, whether in our civil or military system
I will not say, which ought to be removed before we engage
in new wars, as I do not find that either Hyder AUee's abilities
are of the first kind, or his horse equal to those of Shuja Dowla ;
and I believe we have been successful against as powerful
enemies, and with less than a fifth part of our present strength.
" A reformation in this point I shall hope for from the abilities
and experience of our friend' i' and his assistants. To explain
the intimation in the beginning of my letter that we had not
the fairest prospect of peace, I must add that we have been
alarmed for some time past by formidable preparations made
by all our neighbours, which have begun to shew their
object by hostilities between Mahadebrow'^' and Hyder Alice.
Negociations have been formed between them, and seem likely
to take place by the payment of a sum to the former for the
chout,'^' and a further aid, it is said, for an expedition against
the Payengaut.'*' As the harvest, which has been very plentiful,
is almost gathered, I hope we shall be provided both with grain
and money to prevent the effects of their ravages if the Marattas
should make us a visit.
" It gave me an unspeakable pleasure to hear of the new
commission granted to Mr. Van, and to find such a man as
Colonel Forde(5) joined with him. I cannot say I was so well
pleased to see Scrafton's'^) name with theirs, but a further
reflexion has reconciled me to it. All parties will be better
pleased with the measures taken by the Commissioners than if
(1) Mr. Du Pr^.
(2) Madhu Rao, the Peshwa.
(3) Vide No. 19, p. 33, note 1.
(*) Vide No. 19, p. 34, note 1.
(6) Colonel Francis Forde, who defeated the French in the Circars in 1758-59
and took Masulipatam.
(6' Luke Scrafton had preceded Hastings as Resident at Murshidabad.
117 [No. 88.
Mr. Van alone, or joined only with his friends, had formed
them ; and Scrafton is neither illnatured nor hard to manage
when he has no troublesome people about him. Forde will, if
I mistake not, have a great ascendant over him. He is a
reasonable and steady man, and Mr. Van, from his superior
abihties and knowledge of the methodical part of business, in
which I believe the others are deficient, will certainly take the
lead in every thing. I suppose the Commission will last during
the period of Cartier's government, and our friend return to
his former station. I know no other recompense the Company
can make him for his trouble and the odium which the execution
of such a trust will unavoidably draw on him. Bengal certainly
requires such a ruler. The Company's affairs there have been
declining very fast, and for their sake more than that of this
Presidency, which stands in great need of such a reforming
power also, I am most heartily glad the Company have adopted
so wise a plan, the wisest they ever thought of.
" Young Griffiths'!) has always behaved very well. He is
goodnatured and willing, and his parts such as will mend. He
lives with me, and I have put him under Goodlad in the
Secretary's office. I hope you will have interest enough to
obtain his appointment upon the covenanted hst, as I fear
there will be strong objections to a public recommendation
of him from hence. I had Mr. Bolton's'^) promise, voluntarily
given, for his appointment if he behaved well. He is now 15
years of age.
" I have lived almost in the Council Chamber since my
arrival. I cannot boast of having done much in it, as our
attention has been mostly taken up in clearing away the dirt
of the late war. It seems to be the fate of the age we live in
that all public acts shall be personal ; and it has been my hard
lot to arrive at a time when the whole Settlement was ready to
take fire at every measure of the Government, partly from past
discontents and partly from present interest. Among other
disagreable things, the Board were under the necessity of
bringing Colonel Wood to a court martial, of disapproving the
sentence by which he was acquitted, and of dismissing him from
the service. From the great opinion I have of Mr. Sulivan's
integrity, I am sure he will applaud the conduct of the Board
if he believes it to have been just, and be the first to confirm
their proceedings. But as it is possible to be prejudiced when
we think ourselves guided by motives of strict justice : as Colonel
Wood is a relation of Mr. Sulivan and will take more pains to
vindicate himself than others to convict him : and as the
proceedings of the court martial are so voluminous as to frighten
any man who sets a value on his time from an attempt to read
them, I hope, if he has any doubts of the propriety of Colonel
(1) Henry Griffiths, son of the Rev. Charles Griffiths, deceased.
(2) Henry Crabb Boulton, a Director from 1763 to 1773, and three times
Chairman.
No. 88.] 118
Wood's dismission, he will take the trouble to examine the facts
on which it was founded, and that you will have so much
influence with him as to persuade him to this. My regard for
his friendship, and my desire to see the authority of this Govern-
ment duely supported (and it much wants it) are my inducements
for mentioning this, though I believe it unnecessary.
" I beg you will present my compliments to Mrs. Palk and
the General, who with yourself have my sincere and hearty
wishes. I am, dear Sir, your obliged and affectionate humble
servant,
" Warren Hastings."
[P.S.J — " It is necessary to advise you that I secured bills
for the amount of my bond to Mr. Sumner,'^* which will go by
the March ship."
[Holograph, 6f pp., 4>to.]
[No. 89.J
Tho[mas] Palk to Robert Palk, Esq.
1770, January 31st. Fort St. George. — " Honoured Sir, I
have now the pleasure to write you by the Britannia, Captain
Rous,<^' who is come down from Bengal to carry our present
Governour, his brother and Mr. Call home, all of whom I shall feel
much the loss of in many respects, particularly my good friend
Mr. Call, who has treated me like a friend, which is rare in this
country. I have lived with Mr. C. ever since I gave up the
sword . . .
" Since my taking up the pen I have through oeconomy
been applying to Mr. Bourchier, &c., to get me to a subordinate
[station], and not to stay in this luxurious place . . . but the
Governor told me it was your express desire that I should be
kept in the office for three years, which is a long while to slave
for a scanty eight pagodas a month . . .
" In consequence of Mr. B.'s departure they have made me
an allowance of twenty pagodas per month ... It has been
my whole study to hve on the little I have, and likewise to be
as frugal as possible. It may perhaps. Sir, be made appear
to you that I have been extravagant, but my study has been
the contrary I assure you." With diffidence I venture to ask
you for a loan, on which I shall of course pay you the usual
interest.
" I have already began to merchandize. I do not know
whether it is through Mr. Call's recommendation or not ; I
believe not, as my brother wrote long since to me on the subject
of sending me consignments. I have accordingly received one
from him by the Britannia containing three bales of Radnagor
raw silk, which he says is a little for a beginning, so I expect
(1) William Brightwell Sumner, who had retired from the Bengal civil service
aboat 1767.
2) Vide No. 8i, p. 113, note 5.
119 [No, 89.
more soon, and I intend to apply myself very strickly to
business.
" The coming out of the Commissioners in the Aurora frigate
make[s] every body surprized it seems, as they will have it in
their power to turn out and take in as they please. I hope not.
If they do, it will be much longer than I imagine before I come
to be of any rank who are [sic] the youngest servant on this
Coast. Had you waited till the last election you might have
got me at least at the head of the list. However, a certainty is
better than an uncertainty. . . Your most dutiful and most
obedient nephew,
"Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, ^^pp., flscp.]
[No. 90.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Robert Palk. Esq.]
1770, February 5th. Fort St. George.— I send this by the
hand of Mr. Call. " You desired me in your letter by the Duke
of Grafton to give you some account of that wretch Smerdon. I
am sorry he should have come here under your recommendation.
He stayed here about a month after he arrived, and I believe
behaved tolerably well. He then went recommended to Captain
Madge and stayed with him about two months, which he spent
in drinking , . . &c., &c., what is disagreeable for me to mention
and much more so for you to peruse. Captain M. having tried
every means and way to make something qf him and took an
immense deal of trouble, he was obliged to send him down here
to Mr. , I forgot his name ; he came a free merchant
recommended by you, who had promised to carry him to sea . .;
but instead of waiting on that gentleman he has absconded, and
no accounts have since been heard of him . . He squandered
away a great deal of nnoney, which he has left for poor Madge
to pay, which I believe he will do on account of Mrs. Smerdon's
desire, who wrote him on the subject of lending him a little
money, and his coming very bare here ; but without ever signing
her name to the letter, so that he is in doubt whether he will
ever be paid . . ."
If you grant the loan asked for in my last letter, I would
place the sum in the hands of my friend Mr. Morse, and be guided
by his advice. " Mr. M. begins to be tired of the world : he
is settling his affairs, and intends retiring into the country ; I
imagine to the Mount, as he is building a house there ..."
[Holograph, 3 pp. flscp.] " Tho. Palk."
[No. 91.]
W[illiam] Martin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esq.
1770, February 6th. Fort St. George. — " We are still in
peace, and I hope likely to continue so ; though as yet I think
it altogether doubtful whether we shall or not. Hyder and
No. 91.] 120
the Marattas are at present disputing the superiority. Some
skirmishes only have hitherto happened, though a considerable
part of his country has been laid waste by them. Should
matters be compromised, I think it hardly to be doubted but
the latter will pay us a visit ; but their exorbitant demands
on Hyder give us some hopes that no accommodation will
take place. He has sent to demand our assistance in
consequence of the late treaty, and Vackeels from the other
party are shortly expected to arrive. If there is a possibility
of keeping the mid channel, we certainly shall ; at any rate
every species of delay must be used without coming to any
determination ; for it cannot be our interest to espouse the cause
of either, especially in our present situation as to cash. It is
a most difficult card to play.
" I am exceedingly pleased with the appointment of the
Commissioners on many accounts. Such extraordinary powers
were absolutely necessary to regulate affairs in Bengal, where by
all accounts the expences, as well civil as military, but
particularly the latter, have, grown to a most enormous degree.
The Commissioners, however, have undertaken one task which
I most heartily wish they may accomplish with honour — I mean
the regulation of our political system. It appears to me to be
attended with so many difficulties, and those of such a nature
that I much fear they will fail in the attempt. Can any plan
be fallen upon for so regulating the system that the three
Presidencies may co-operate ? I think not.
" Private letters inform us that restoring the Circars is to be
another object of the Commissioners' attention. This there
can be no difficulty in executing ; but why restore them ? The
argument, I suppose, is that by keeping them our force is too
much divided, and that in case of a rupture with the French
such division would expose the whole of our possessions. It has
weight, and for that reason our first principle, I think, should be
to abandon them in case of such a rupture : but why give up
at once a very considerable revenue (they will probably produce
this year more than 5 lacks of pagodas, besides Cicacole),
and by relinquishing these countries give the French the fairest
opportunity they can have of firmly establishing themselves ? . .
I cannot persuade myself that the Commissioners will restore
the Circars, even though they should have come out with that
intention . . .
" I have acquainted you of the transactions of the Select
Committee and Nabob's creditors in my former letters. These
matters still continue on a very unsettled footing ... for
the creditors will not rely on the Company for the recovery of
what is due to them, and the pressing demands of the Select
Committee to have the Company's debt discharged in preference
has prevented the Nabob from making any payments in dis-
charge of his debt to individuals. There are amongst these
some turbulent spirits . . . They address the Court by this
121 [No. 91.
ship, and have appointed attorneys to act for them in England.
General Richard Smith is at the head of them. Fairfield,'!)
Calland,l2) Affleck, Saunders, and, I think, nine others are in
commission with him, but what their instructions are I know
not. . . The creditors have hopes that the Commissioners will
have it in their power to settle matters to the satisfaction of
all parties ; and I most heartily wish it may prove so, since it
will relieve the distresses of many, and restore harmony to
the Settlement, which we have long been strangers to. At
present discontent prevails in every countenance.
" I told you of the Court Martial on Colonel Wood, and
expressed my apprehensions that the charge of having appro-
priated to himself the provisions taken in the Coimbatoor
country would appear too clearly for the Court to pass it over.
I was, however, mistaken, for he was acquitted of every charge,
though nine in number. But no sooner was the sentence
known than the President and Council dismissed him from the
service on a clear conviction that, though acquitted, the charges
(or most of them) were proved beyond dispute by the evidence
produced before the Court. The matter, as I take it, was
thus : — the Court were convinced that sevetal of the charges
, were proved, but they could not condemn Wood for many
things which most of themselves had probably been guilty of,
nor disapprove of his proceedings without acknowledging those
perquisites to be illegal which they would fain establish as their
right. -The privileges of a Commander-in-Chief appeared
therefore in great measure to depend on the issue of this affair ;
and the President and Council found it necessary to assert
their authority, and by dismissing Wood convince the whole
corps that they would not allow of those abuses, which began
to be regarded as dues to the officers in command. I have been
told that this step has given great dissatisfaction, and that the
officers in general complain loudly of the injury done to the
service by the dismission of an officer on articles which he had
been acquitted of by his judges ; but still I think the step was
absolutely necessary ; and if the President and Council were at
all culpable, it was in not publishing their reasonings on the
proceedings of the Court . . ., because in my opinion conciliating
the minds of the corps of officers and preventing as far as
possible any discontent from getting possession of them is a
point that should be materially attended to . . .
" Verelst, I imagine, will be in England before this can reach
you. His administration is greatly censured, and there are
those who scruple not to say it was a compound of indolence
and ignorance.
" Mr. B., Call, James Bourchier, Debeck'^' and Frieschman'*'
(1) Richard Fairfield. Vide No 41, p, 63, note 5.
(2) John CaUand. ' Vide No. 34 p. 55, note 3,
(8) De Beck was in 1758 a Captain in the Madras European Regiment.
(4) Daniel Prieschman was an Ensign of Swiss Infantry in 1764. As Lleut.-
Colonel he served in the first Mysore war.
No. 91.] 122
all leave us on the Britannia. Du Pre became Governor the
31st ultimo agreeable to the Company's orders ; but he has
hitherto remained quiet in his new station, and there will be
no meeting till Mr. B. has left us. Then we shall see what
we shall see, and you shall know how we go on. I have before
expressed to you what my apprehensions are. Hastings's
amiable disposition has, however, in great measure eased them,
and I am willing to hope that his mildness will prove a palliative
to the rigour of the other.
" Mr. B. and myself have been on the most friendly footing
during his whole government . . . His administration has been
truely troublesome and unfortunate, and he now labours under
the displeasure of the Court for faults which I cannot think
were his own ... To me it is past a doubt that our want of
success has been in great measure owing to Call ; and I will
frankly declare to you that I have seen sufficient of him most
heartily to wish that he may never have the administration of
affairs lodged in his hands. I will go so far as to say he has
neither steadiness or abilities for such a post ; and after saying
this you must not imagine you are reading the opinion of a
prejudiced person, for Call and I have had no sort of dispute ;
we have rather been on an intimate footing. I speak from
conviction that he might make a good Counsellor, but that he
would be a wretched Governor.
" I have nothing to say to you on the subject of Madras
news, except that Jack Hollond'^) has brought a young wife
from Bengal, who is more admired for her good sense than
beauty, though in the latter she surpasses most of our females.
But this is mere hearsay, for I have been so tied to my desk
that I have not paid a visit for many months ....
" The matter which you wrote about to Moodu Kistnah and
me still remains in the same situation. I wish I may not
shortly have occasion to observe your instructions on that
head. I have my fears however . . .
"W. M. GOODLAD."
[Holograph, 9f pp., Mo.]
[No. 92.]
Robert Palk, jun. to Robert Palk, Esq., Spring Gardens.
1770, February 25th. Ingerlee. — I am sending a parcel of
" 20 neck cloths for my brother Walter," who is to divide them
with my father if the latter needs them. I came here yesterday
to see Mrs. Floyer on board the Anson, as the lady is going to
visit Madras.
" We have some appearance of troubles again up the country.
Cossim Ally Cawn*^) is reported to have mustered up a strong
(II John HoUond, a Madras civil servant of 1761, entered Council in 1777, became
Resident at Hyderabad in Rumbold's administration, and in 1789 acted as
Governor of Madras for a year.
(2) Kasim Ali Khan (Mir Kaaim), late Nawab of Bengal, who was responsible
for the Patna massacre of 1763.
123 [No. 92.
force, which in all probability will be joined to that of Shuja
Dowla. A hircarrah'^' has been taken in conveying letters from
the one to the other. If the French do not trouble us, we shall
give a very good account of our northern friends . . George
and his little family at Midnapore are all in good health . . .
" Robert Palk."
" P.S. — Young Mr. Sulivan*^) is with me. He is just arrived
from China, where he was obliged to go for the recovery of his
health."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4 to. Wax seal with the Palk crest.]
[No. 93.]
Rob[er]t Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.
1770, March 15th. London.—" Dear Goodlad , . . The French
are not likely, I think, soon to disturb you, for their situation
in Europe is certainly more pitiful than ours. They have been
obliged to make use of the sponge, finding it impossible to raise
supplies sufficient to pay the annual interest of their debt.
" Oceans of people are gone this year to India, and I am at a
loss to guess how they can all be provided for. However, the
number is much less for Sulivan's opposing it. To support a
proprietary interest the Directors are in a manner obliged to
overload India. It is very uncertain which party will be
triumphant this year in Leadenhall Street ; both sides seem to
be sure of success. Whoever carries it, I should think it will
be the last great struggle, and whichever way it goes I think
your little brother'^' will have a good chance of seeing you
next year.
" In my last I told you we were on our journey into Devon-
shire, where I have at last, near Exeter, pitched my tent — in a
good house and very pleasant country, close to the road when in
good time you land at Plymouth . . .
"RoBT. Palk."
[P.S.] — " Mrs. Mackay came home in good time to save the
dismission of her husband."
[No. 94.]
Warren Hastings to [Robert Palk, Esq.]
1770, April 3rd. Fort St. George. — " Dear Sir, I wrote to
you by the Britannia, and at the same time acknowledged the
receipt of your favor of the 23rd of June last. By this packet
I have sent, bills to my attorneys to enable them to discharge
my bond to Mr. Sumner,'*' and have directed them to apply
to you to assist in settling that account, which is the last trouble
that I shall have occasion to give you in this business. For
(1) Hircarrah, from Hind, harkdra, a messenger, spy.
(2) John Sulivan. Vide No. 19, p. 29, note 3.
(3) Richard Goodlad.
(*) William BrightweU Sumner. Vide No. 88, p. 118, note 1.
No. 94.] 124
that which you have already had, and the risque you have
undergone in it on my account, I repeat my thanks.
" I hope I shall have your excuse for the trouble which I am
going to give you in an affair of another kind, having taken the
hberty to consign two bulses of diamonds to you, one marked
No. 1, the property of Mr. Hancock,'^' the other marked No. 2,
belonging to Lieut. Colonel Ironside.*^) It was the only way
I had of complying with the pressing solKcitation of these gentle-
men to remit money for the use of their famihes, as they had
been disappointed of bills in Bengal. Having neglected to
give proper directions to me concerning the consignments, their
first application being for bills, they have made it necessary
for me to request you to receive these commissions, as Mr.
Hancock's attorneys can be but incompetent judges of the value
of diamonds or the methods of disposing of them, and as Mrs.
Ironside, like other ladies, is most probably acquainted with
only one way of laying out jewels.
" I do suppose that Mr. Hancock's attorneys will be glad
to leave the disposal of his diamonds to your management.
In that case I shall be obliged to you if you will dispose of them
to the best advantage, and let them have the produce ; but if
they should rather chuse to receive them unsold, be pleased to
deliver them into their charge. I have only written to Mrs.
Hancock upon the subject, by whose directions I request you
will be guided. That lady, Francis Austen, Esq., and the Rev.
Mr. George Austen are Mr. Hancock's attorneys.
" The produce of Colonel Ironside's diamonds you will be
pleased to pay to Mrs. Ironside, his lady. She is a relation of
the General's, and of an amiable and deserving character.
This will serve as an excuse for troubling you with her concern.
I believe I shall have your ready permission for the other.
" The late arrival of the Aurora gives us all much uneasiness.
I never knew any object in which the wishes of all men seemed
so heartily to concur as in the coming of the Commissioners,
and this may be the reason why we are so alarmed at their long
passage, which is what ought to be expected from the difficulty
of the navigation round Ceyloan at this time of the year, and
(1) Tyso Saul Hancock, a Madras surgeon, attended Olive at Trichinopoly in
1752, was transferred to Bengal in 1759, and resigned the service two years later.
He continued to reside at Calcutta, where he practised medicine in conjunction with
commerce. Hancock accompanied his intimate friend Warren Hastings to England
in 1765 and ret<irned to Madras with him in 1769. In 1770 he was reappointed
to the Bengal medical service. He married at Cuddalore in 1753 Philadelphia
Austen, aunt of Jane Austen the novelist, and died at Calcutta in 1775, aged 64.
(2) Gilbert Ironside, descended from two Bishops of Bristol of that name, was a
son of Edward Ironside, banker, of Loudon, who died when Lord Mayor in 1753.
Born in 1737, Gilbert was educated at Winchester, and went to India in 1756 as
Ensign of an independent company. Returning to England by way of China, he
re-embarked in 1759 as Ensign in the Bengal Army. He accompanied Hastings to
Patna in 1762, was employed on the Staff by both Clive and Vansittart, became
Lieut. Colonel in 1768, and served as Hastings's Military Secretary in 1772. As
Colonel he commanded a brigade in 1774, retired in 1786, and died in England in
1801. Ironside married in 1763 Letitia, daughter of the Rev. Robert Roberts.
He left unpublished worlcs on logic, tactics and Persian grammar.
125 [No. 94.
the inexperience of the men of the Navy in these seas. Would
to God they were come ! We are just arrived at the crisis in
which I fear we shall be compelled to declare ourselves the
friends or foes of Hyder or Mahdebrow. Both have been hitherto
kept in expectation of our alliance, and that expectation only
has, I beheve, prevented the ravages of the latter. Griffiths
is well, and goes on well. Pray present my compliments to
Mrs. Palk and the General, and beheve me to be with the truest
esteem and regard, dear P., your obliged humble servant,
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.] " Warren Hastings."
[No. 95.]
Warren Hastings to Rob[er]t Palk, Esq.
1770, April 7th. Fort St. George.— " Dear Sir, I must
trouble you again to desire that you will not sell the diamonds
by an advance on the invoice price, which I understand is the
usual method, because they are, I am assured, of a superior
quality to most sent to England by this ship. You will be
pleased therefore to open the bulses, and rate them by their
quality when you dispose of them.
" Shall I beg the favor of you to send the enclosed to
Lieutenant Douglass of the York man of war ? I cannot recollect
a more particular direction to him. I am, dear Sir, your
most obedient servant,
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo.] " Warren Hastings."
[No. 96.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to [Robert Palk, Esq.]
1770, April 8th. Fort St. George. Received 15th October.
— " My dear Friend, . . . We have been long looking out for the
Aurora, and persuade ourselves that she must make her appear-
ance very shortly. The Stagg arrived at Anjengo the 19th
February, and we learn by her that the Aurora left the Cape
between the 20th and 30th of December. According to the
common course of passages she should be here now, yet the
uncertain season makes us very little apprehensive for her,
particularly as the Duke of Kingston was at the Cape at the same
time, and ought by the same rule to have been with us.
" Peace still prevails, and in my opinion we have little to
apprehend for the present year. The season is already very
far advanced, and the Marattas too much engaged with Hyder
to trouble us. No compromise seems likely to take place between
them, and the apprehensions of our joining Hyder will prevent
their commencing hostilities as long as their disputes subsist.
Each party would rejoice at our assistance, and 'tis possible the
Marattas may endeavour to frighten us in order to obtain it ;
but I cannot believe tliey will go further, and unless they do,
I regard it as certain that we shall remain neuter. They have
plagued Hyder confoundedly. May they continue to torment
each other !
No. 96.1 126
" At present our prospect is very good. The Committee^)
had, previous to Mr. B's depa ture, settled very advantageous
terms with his Excellency'^) for the discharge of his debts, and
he has hitherto been very punctual in his payments. We shall
be able to pay off our debt, assist China largely, and nevertheless
provide an ample Investment. How different was our prospect
twelve months ago !
" Colonel Wood did intend to have taken his passage on the
Anson, but his unfortunate disputes with the Board have
prevented it, for they would not give him leave unless he would
give security to stand the issue of the suits commenced against
him in the Mayor's Court ... He talks loudly of the injustice
done him in many respects ....
" Matters have hitherto gone on very smoothly in the new
government. Du Pre is very cleaver and calculated for business.
We are punctual in every thing — registers closed, papers signed
and dispatches delivered to an hour . . . and my poor pate and
fingers have paid pretty severely for many days past . . .
" A storm is said to be brewing in Bengal, and 'tis probable
the name of Cossim'^' will be once more familiar to us. The
Gentlemen there, however, seem more alarmed with expectations
of the French than from inland appearances ; with what reason
I know not, but I am sure we are not equally apprehensive here.
That great preparations have been making at the Islands (*' is
certain, but in my opinion their views are more bent towards
the entire conquest of Madagascar than this way ....
" Calcutta itself is in a deplorable way, and the want of
money felt to a degree scarcely to be conceived ; — individuals
daily becoming bankrupts, property sold by the Mayor's Court
for not a third of its value, and, what is still worse, grain so
exceedingly scarce that the distresses of the country people are
beyond all conception. The Nabob Syfe ut Dowlah(^> thought
to be past recovery in the small pox ....
"W. M. GOODLAD."
[P.S.] — " Pray, my respectful compliments to the General,
The Nabob sent his annuity late last night ..."
[Holograph, 3 pp., flscp.]
[No. 97.]
Lau[rence] Sulivan to [Robert Palk, Esq.]
N.D. [1770, cir. May-September.]—" Dear Sir, That one of
the best businesses in this life is to do good offices is your
opinion, confirmed by practice. Indulge me then with a few
words.
" To carry the India election last year and to compleat it
(1) The Select Committee.
(2) Nawab Walajah.
(3) Kasim Ali Khan. Vide No. 92, p. 122, note 2.
W Vide No. 47, p. 72, note 1.
(5) Nawab Saif-ud-daula, second sou of Mir Jafar, succeeded his brother Najm-
ud-daula as Nawab of Bengal in 1766, and died in March, 1770,
127 [No. 97.
the next has involved the fortunes of Mr. Vansittart and myself,
though I have since found we did not start alike. I had then
a comfortable independance ; it Avas necessary that he should
once more see India ; his wishes (thank God) are accomplished,
but the fortunes of both are still at stake, a return to his former
affluence still depending, and much, upon my interest and
industry. It will be the joy of my life to see him happy, and
in seeking the recovery of my own prosperity it never has or
ever shall clash or take preference. Something then is due to
me.
" We are pledged and engaged mutually for large sums to
prevent our suffering severely in the sale of stock in these hours
of panic. As it was a common cause, I never considered who
advanced the money necessary so long as one of us had the
money to advance, and accordingly when he left England, and
many months before, I had paid in twelve thousand pounds, and
he was indebted to this joint concern 3,000Z. Upon the eve of
his departure we had very serious discourse upon the subject
of his leaving me behind in a dreadfull situation, having no other
resources left that I could reach but my estate and 3,500/.
India stock. He stated that 20,000Z. of the French bills, 2,000
India stock, his sallary from the Company and license to draw
upon him for 10,000/. were the aids he would leave absolutely
at my call imder the direction of Mr. Motteux,!^) and if more
was necessary he would leave a letter with that gentleman to
be delivered to his attorney ; though this not to be done
without the last necessity ; and at my earnest request promised
that his attorney should have no negative in these aids, but
directions absolute to comply. Supposing then (which I
cannot doubt) that Van has not deceived me, how much must
I be astonished at the behaviour of Mr. Boehm'^) towards Mr.
Motteux and me ! He has demurred to grant what an enemy
does not refuse me. You see by the enclosed what has been
desired, which I will again explain to you : — Mr. Boyd'^' in last
Direction lent us 9,000Z. to make 18 votes,'*' and Messrs.
Vansittart, Manship,'^' and Sulivan gave him an obligation to
return him the stock by calling in these votes whenever
demanded. Mr. Manship having quitted us — at least keeping
himself to act as he shall please — demands that his name may
be taken out of the obligation, but says, as he means always
to act like a gentleman, will be content (if this is inconvenient)
to have the 18 names with the receipts deposited with him.
As I did not chuse to allarm Mr. Boyd or to trust Manship
with votes that he would have the power to disqualifie, I asked
Mr. Manship, instead of this, to take an obligation from me
and Mr. Vansittart's attorney importing that his name to Boyd's
(1) John Motteux, a Director in 1769.
(2) Edmund Boehm, Attorney for Henry Vansittart.
(3) John Boyd, a Director from 1753 to 1764.
(*) Vide No. 62, p. 91, note 4.
(6) John Manship, a Director from 1762 to 1809.
No. 97.] 128
obligation was null and void. Manship very kindly acquiesces
and does us a real favour. Ought Mr. Boehm then to hesitate
a moment, as Van's attorney, to sign with me such a paper,
which Van himself, if present, must have done ? Don't I offer
Mr. Boehm (which he has no right to claim of me) the same
security that an enemy (Manship) is willing to accept ? Is
Vansittart to ruin himself and me by appointing a person that
will not act for him ?
" Mr. Motteux's treatment hurts me, and may injure us if I
cannot calm him. He has been a useful! friend indeed, and we
owe him much. Mr. Pleydell,''' in deep distress, applys for
part of money lent, and often promised, by Van. We could
not pay him. He is drove to state his situation to a friend,
and he, wishing Van well, gives him 1,000Z. and takes his order
upon Motteux. This person was Mr. Gainor [?] ; depending
the draft would be honoured, waits upon Mr. Motteux, who
states it to Mr. Boehm, and being daily dunned he writes him
a letter whose answer is such as might be given to his clerk ;
and Motteux has paid the money (for the honour of Vansittart)
out of his own cash.
" Such being the history, I am, in behalf of Van and myself,
to implore your good offices (and remember that I positively
ask and desire no more) with a person who, however good and
amiable he may be in other respects, is acting in these instances
deeply to the injury [of] Mr. Vansittart. I want no favour of
Mr. Boehm, but common justice, to do that in behalf of Mr.
Vansittart which he must and would have done if present, and
which Mr. Boehm is instructed to do, or I am cruelly deceived.
If he has not those powers and will not contribute those aids,
Mr. Vansittart must share with me the consequences. I (not
he) shall be ruined, but still with a balm to all good minds,
honest to the last. I trouble you on many accounts ; — your
friendship to us both, but particularly Mr. Boehm's asserting
he can take up no point without your opinion and approbation.
If I have a negative respecting Manship, who is to have his
answer by Tuesday, I will directly put him in possession of
18 votes.
" I am ever, my dear Sir, yours most affectionately,
" Sunday."
" Lau. Sulivan."
[P.S.] — " I understood you had lent lately to Mr. Boehm,
for the purpose of serving Van in this business, 5,000Z. Mr.
Motteux could with difficulty get 1,500.
" The matter, as mentioned in Mr. Boehm's note relative
to Messrs. Manship and Boyd, is that Manship would apply
to Boyd demanding his name to be given up, to which Mr.
Boehm has no objection."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4to.]
(1) Charles Stafford Pleydell (or Playdell). Vide No. 256, p. 252, note 4.
129
[No. 98.]
Rob[ee,]t Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.
1770, June 16th, per Dolphin frigate. Received 20th
February, 1771. — " My dear Goodlad, ., . I join in all you say " in
your letters of 16th September and 19th November " concerning
poor Bourchier, and will only add the times have been very
unfortunate. However, his reception will be more to his
satisfaction than he expected. I only wish, instead of driving
Calland to despair, he had moved him from St. David ... I
desire you will still continue your application concerning
Withecombe's money . . .
" I hope in God you will continue in peace ; but aS long as
we are to protect the Carnateck troubles will sometimes arise,
and it will require the most prudent management to keep clear
of them. I have, however, great expectations from Mr. Du
Pre and Mr. Hastings, if more cooks do not spoil the soop, and
the Commissioners at least do no harm. The only good these
gentlemen can do, I judge, at Madras will be to soften the
severity of the Company's orders concerning the Nabob's
creditors . . . The Company cannot set aside the rights of the
creditors ; and the whole can only be meant to shew at a
General Court that the Directors have exerted themselves, and
there I suppose it will end. However, entre nous, it seems
surprizing to me that the Governor and Council ever gave
their sanction to such an Assignment, because the only induce-
ment the Company could have in launching out their money
to the Nabob seemed to be a just expectation that the Carnateck
was bound for the security of repayment. I very sincerely
pity the poor Nabob, and wish there was any prospect of an
end to his troubles. I often advised him, when he was borrowing
such large sums, of the consequences which might hereafter
follow . . ."
I recommend you to correspond with Mr. Purling'^' on the
Company's affairs, as he is strongly supported by Lord Clive,
and the present directors are now firmly established. I am
writing on my way to Devonshire for the summer. Hint to
my nephew, whose letters show marks of carelessness, that more
thought is called for. " Robt- Palk."
[Holograph, 2\ pp., 4to.]
[No. 99.]
C. Bazett'^' to Robert Palk, Esq.
1770, August 9th. St. Helena. — I desire to secure a
nomination as Writer for my son in England, and seek your kind
recommendation and support. " C. Bazett."
[Autograph, 2\ pp., Uo.]
(1) John Purling was Deputy Chairman of Directors in 1770, and Chairman in
1771.
(2) Several members of the Bazett family were domiciled at St. Helena. They
appear to have been descendants of Captain Matthew Bazett, who was temporary
Governor of the island in 1714.
J
130
[No. 100.]
George Vansittart to Rob[er]t Palk, Esq.
1770, September 5th. Calcutta.—" Dear Palk, ... I must now
communicate to you a piece of intelligence on which I cannot
reflect without the deepest sorrow, and which will be equally
afflicting to you. The Aurora left the Cape the latter end of
December, and has no more been heard of. Faint hopes are
entertained that she may still be safe ; but for my part I must
confess that I can flatter myself with none. A storm, a rock
or fire have, I fear, deprived us for ever of our brother. I write
by this ship (the Lapwing) to you and my eldest brother^' only,
and to you two I leave the disagreeable task of informing my
mother, Mrs. Harry Van, Mrs. Palk and the rest of our friends
of this most unhappy event ... I shall in future write fully -
to you whatever may occur to me relative to the transactions
in Bengal as I used to do to Harry . . .
" Councils are established at Moorshedabad and Patna for
the management of the Dewanny revenues. Messrs. Becher,
Reid, Lawrell and Graham compose the former ; Alexander,
Vansittart and Palk the latter. Palk and I shall travel off to
Patna in a few days . . . You will hear from your nephew that
he is now a married man . . . Our httle George Henryi^) has
been very dangerously ifl, butj by ||Mr. Hancock's'^* good
management is now recovered ..."
" George Vansittart."
[P.S.] — " Colonel Ironside is apprehensive of being super-
seded by Colonel Lesly,'*> and has desired me to request your
interest in his behalf . . ."
[Holograph, 4 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 101.]
Robert Palk [jun.] to Robert Palk, Esq.
1770, September 8th. Calcutta. — I gratefully acknowledge
the trouble you have taken to obtain my reinstatement in the
service. Councils are nominated for Moorshedabad and Patna
for revenue collection, and I am appointed to the latter with
Alexander'^' and Vansittart.
" George has told you in his letter how faint our hopes are of
ever hearing of the Aurora. She left the Cape the 23rd of
December, and has no more been heard of. The captain talked
of making a short cut ; said the Indiamen took too great a
circle in general. Our fears are that fire, a rock or something
of the kind has for ever deprived us of poor Mr. Van — a cruel
fate indeed ! His loss will be severely felt in India as well as
at home.
(1) Robert Vansittart.
(2) Afterwards General G. H. Vansittart.
(3) Dr. Tyso Saul Hancock. Vide No. 94, p. 124, note 1.
(*) Colonel Matthew Leslie, a King's oflHcer, had previously served in the "West
Indies.
fS) James Alexander. Vide No. 65, p. 92. note 6.
131 [No. 101.
" The Stag has been on her embassy to Persia, but I can give
no account of her proceedings there. She is daily expected
from Madras with General Coote on board.
" We have had a most dreadfuU scarcity in Bengal and Bahar
this year. Many hundred thousand of poor creatures have
died for absolute want. In many parts of the country there are
not hands enough to cultivate the lands ..."
My acknowledgments are due to Mr. Vanrixtal's father. I
shall do my best for his son : " indeed I have often endeavoured
to bring him out of a strange unaccountable way of life, which
has brought on him much misery and must in a few years end
his existance. . .
" I hope some of the ships of the season will bring me the
books you promised to send, Millar's Dictionary and Hooker's
History. You sent me a very handsome supply of books from
Madras, and it is with infinite satisfaction I dedicate an hour
or two every day to their study, which, to my shame I say it,
is more than ever I did before ..."
I correspond with my brother at Madras, who is now " in
joint house keeping with James Call,"(i) and have consigned
goods to him. I have heard nothing of Mr. Yarde,*^' who was
in bad health when he left Calcutta to join the army. Mr.
Becher'*) has been seriously ill, and intends making a sea
voyage " as his last resource."
" I have not yet communicated the most material piece of
news regarding myself, and what will, I believe, surprise you
much. You may remember how alert I used to be at Madras
when in the company of Miss Stonhouse,'*' the propensity I
had to make myself a favorite ; but George's coming down cut
off all my hopes. I have, however, allyed myself to the family
by marrying the second sister.'^' I fear you will think that by
this act I have defeated your good intention of rendering me
usefuU to my friends at home ; but I give you my word. Sir,
it shall be no obstacle to that end. I have no desire to see any
of my sisters in India, but if you think proper to send either of
them out, I shall give them a most sincere reception and take
every care of them in my power. If either of 'em should come
out, as well as I can recollect my youngest sister (Grace) is
the best calculated ..."
" Robert Palk."
" 11th [Sept.] — I have just received a letter from Mr. Morse
giving hopes of the Aurora . . . R.P."
[Holograph, lOj pp., 4to.]
(1) James Call entered the Madras civil service in 1765. He never left India,
and died in 1799.
(2) Lieut. John Yarde, Bengal Army. Vide No. 54, p. 80, note 2.
(3) Eichard Becher, Bengal civil service,
f4) Sarah Stonhouse.
(5) Lucia Stonhouse.
132
[No. 102.J
A[lexande]r Wynch to Robert Palk, Esq.
1770, September 16th. Masulipatam. — " Dear Palk, Happy
indeed should I be could I by this ship give you some account
of our friend Van. Our expectations and, I was going to say
our hopes, are almost over, for every part [?port] where she
could be gone to in the Indian seas we have heard from. Pitty
you all I do ; I feel myself for the man I loved , . . Du Pre
would think it a very fortunate event if Providence was to send
the Aurora to Fort St. George, as at once they would be able
to determine between the Governor and General.'^' The latter
by his commission thinks himself the first person. The
Governor will not give it up, nor can he in my opinion, as the
President of each Settlement must be the Supreme over all the
Company's servants both civil and military . . . Coote acts
not now on the Coast, and if the Gentlemen at Bengali do not
choose to give him the rank he expects, he intends home by
the first ship. I am surprized there was not more circum-
spection in the orders that were sent out with him. This and
the altercation there has been with Sir John Lendsey'^) has
made it disagreeable to all concerned. . . The dignity of the
Governor is greatly lessened, and Walaw Jaw seems to look
upon it in that light. He already has asked the Governor and
Council if they know who he is, &c. Repent what he is now
doing he will, as sure as the sun will shine again. An extra-
ordinary commission Sir John's is, if what it is reported to be
is the truth, that he is [to] negociate independant of the Company
with any country Powers he pleases, to examine into what he
pleases, and make use of any measures he may please in doing
it, even underhand and private ones . . . Du Pre has a bad
time of it. Hastings is, I think, to be pittyed ..."
I am anxious to leave India on account of my age, and
because my girls need me at home, but I must first find means
to remit the little money I possess.
" At present we as Englishmen are free from war, but whether
we may not be under the necessity of assisting Hyder, who is
going to be attacked again by both Soubah and Morattas, or
of joining them to overset him, is more than I can say ; but
this I do, that if both can be avoided without detriment to
ourselves, that will be the measure we would choose. At
Bengali they are free from war, but famine rages to the greatest
degree. All above Calcutta 2 and 3 seer of rice only for a rupee,
and thousands dye dayly . . .
" My son George'^) will be 16 in November, 1771, and be ready
to offer his services to the Company as a Writer, If you can
(1) Major-General Byre Coote, Commander-m-Chief in India.
'21 Admiral Sir John Lindsay, Naval Commander-in-Chief and Minister Pleni-
potentiary, arrived in India in July, 1770, at the age of thirty-three. In the following
year he was invested by Nawab Walajah at Chepauk with the insignia of the Order
of the Bath.
(3) George Wynch was appointed a Writer in 1773.
133 [No. 102.
get him a god father he will, as well as myself, be obliged to
you. Bengali or Madrass I would have him come to ; the first
I would prefer, having 2 here already. . . . Billy d) called here
last month on his way to Bengali ; he is gone to see his aunt
Watts.^ Alexander is just made a lieutenant, and ordered to
Madge's battahon of sepoys. Madam lay in last month :
another girl we have, so that when I come home I should want
a whole Great Cabbin. I thank you for the attention you have
paid to my son Bob. If a war should commence, I think he
had better try his fortune this way, especially if he can be got
into the Admiral's ship. His chance of promotion would be
greater than at home, where I have but little interest with the
gentlemen of the Navy. I dayly expect to receive orders from
Madrass to go into the Circars again this year to settle the
Zummabundy.(2) By what I did the last, the Zemindars begin
to feel the good effects of our government, being free from all
kind of oppressions, which under a rapacious Renter (and none
I have known to be any other) they were not. . . .
" I fear I shall never be able to enjoy the sweets of country life,
for the education of my daughters will compel me to live where
proper masters can be obtained. I have not heard this year
from my daughter Sophy ".
"Ar. Wynch."
[Autograph, 8 pp., 4fo.]
[No. 103.]
Mrs. Jane Morse to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1770, September 19th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir . . . The
Aurora has not been heard of since she left the Cape the 24 of
December. Providence has given my dear Mrs. Van a large
portion of affliction, but I trust he will give her a proportional
degree of fortitude to enable her in some degree to bear with
patience this last most fatal trial . , . Mr. Morse is much
afflicted : scenes of such interesting an nature are too much at
his age to bear up against, especially to one whose life has been
filled with care and anxiety. How shocked I was to hear the
distracted state Mr. Van's affairs were in ! We thought his
fortune much reduced to what it was, and therefore necessary
for him to return again to India for the benefit of his family,
but could have no idea that his fortune had suffered so largely.
The losses our family has sustained in the stocks are much
talked of here : there are no secrets in this place . . . Mr. Morse
has not for some [time] past taken any of the allowance Mr. Van
was pleased to give us, and by his care in letting the office and
godowns the house has produced, clear of all charges and repairs;
five per cent, for his money. Now I imagine it will be sold for
(1) William Wynch entered the Madras civil service in 1766.
(2) Jamabandi, the annual settlement of fluctuating items of land revenue ;
from Hind, jama, whole, and Pers. handhi, settlement.
No. 103.] 134
the most it will fetch. We shall then hire a house in the Black
Town, there being none in the White' i' to be got but what are
at too high prizes for us."
Mrs. Van will be guided in everything by you and Mr.
Bourchier, and desires to retire into the country for the sake
of economy.
" Mr. Palk is married to Miss Stonehouse. She is a prudent
girl,^nd I hope she will make a good wife ..."
" Jane Morse."
[Holograph, 3\ pp., 4sto.]
[No. 104.]
Nic[holas] Morse to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1770, September 30th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, This
waites on you by the Lapwing . . . and by her [I] have an
opportunity to acquaint you that, to our great concern, we have
not yet seen our friend in the Aurora, but hear she left the Cape
of Good Hope the 24 of December, and from the report of
Lieutenant Johnson of the Stag, who was aboard in the harbour,
that there was a gale of wind on the next evening after the day
the Aurora sailed, which he imagined might have occasioned
the loss of her mastes, and the wind being from the south east,
which generally prevails at that season, carryed them to the
Brazils to refit. If nothing is heard of them by the month of
January, it may be concluded that some accident has befallen
them, and in that case a heavy loss to the family ; and my poor
Mrs. Van [will] stand in need of all your kind care and regard
to support her under so great an affliction . . .
" This country is at present quiet, but Hyder and the Morattas
are still in arms against each other, and it will be scarce
practicable for the English to satisfy both. The French are
increasing their military force at Pondicherry, every ship
bringing officers, men and ammunition, &c. They have some
ships in India already of 60 guns, and are reported . to have
large numbers of men both at the islands of Mauritius and
Madagascar. At this last they have erected a strong fort,
and are training the natives to arms ; so that I should be glad
to see some of his Majesty's ships abroad to be ready for them,
as it is very probable the rupture will begin in these parts . . .
You will hear that the Governour and Council here have had
some differences with General Coote in regard to the extent
of his commission, as has occasioned the General to decline
acting."
George Vansittart and your nephew Robert have been
appointed to the Committee for collecting the revenue of Bihar,
and the former has resigned the Chief ships of " Midnapore and
Dynagepore " in consequence.
(1) The White Town lay within the walls of Port St. George ; the Black Town
was the native city situated north of the Fort.
135 [No. 104.
" The famine in Bengal has been so great that in some parts
rice was not to be bought for more than two seer for a rupee,
which used to be at 30 and upwards ; and the number of dead
bodies has occasioned a sickness, so that the country is in deep
distress. Loaves of bread that were at 32 last year per rupee
are reduced to 4 at Calcutta . . .
" As Harryd) is, I find, intended for India, the best way I
think will be to send him in the civil service to Bengal to his
uncle, who may have it in his power to serve him ; and that
Settlement you are sensible has greatly the advantage of the
others for persons to get forward in fortune . . . Pray let neither
him nor any of his brothers be sent out cadets.
" Mr. Carty, as one of Mr. Sloper's executors, applyed to
me some months ago for money for bills for the portion of
one of the daughters . . . but the match was broke off . . .
Your nephew Mr. Thomas is well and under Mr. Goodlad in
the office, and has his allowance of twenty pagodas per month.
His brother at Bengal has made some consignments to him and
Mr. James Call, and he has entered as a merchant ..."
It is understood that Mr. Brooke is to go to the northward
on the occurrence of a vacancy, although Messrs. Ardley,
Stratton and Dawson are senior to him. The Nawab has paid
in fourteen lakhs of pagodas to the Company, and about Pags.
90,000 for the creditors, but the latter have not yet been
allowed to receive the amount. The despatch of military
officers from England is very discouraging to those on the Coast
establishment.
" I wish you much happiness in your new purchass,'^' and
that you and Mrs. Palk may find it answer your expectations,
and that a retirement may prove agreeable after the bustle
and noise of a town situation. My house at the Mount is near
finished, and we purpose, with the leave of Mr. Hydro and
Moderow, to live there about 8 months in the year, or the
greatest part of that time. Whether those great gentlemen
will chuse to indulge us time is to shew ..."
[Holograph, 6| pp., 4>to.] " Nic. Morse."
[No. 105.]
William Jackson<^' to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1770, October 1st. Madrass. — " You were so kind [as] to give
Mr. Dunning'*) in December, 1769, two letters of recommendation
for me, one of which was to Mr. Stone, who has paid the utmost
regard to your recommendation." For this I return you
grateful thanks.
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo.] " William Jackson."
(1) Henry Vansittart, jun., son of Governor Henry Vansittart.
(2) Haldon House.
(3) William Jackson entered the Madras civil service in 1770.
(*) John Dunning of Ashburton, barrister, became Solicitor General in 17G8,
and was created Baron Ashburton in 1782.
136
[No. 106.]
Lieut. Thomas Palk to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1770, October 1st. Condapillee. — " Honoured Sir, ... I
have the pleasure to inform you that my brother^' arrived at
Madras the 30th of June last. He has been in that neighbour-
hood ever since, so that I have not as yet had the satisfaction
of seeing him. Just after his arrival he, with the rest of the
- cadets of this season, were ordered out to Poonamale in order
to learn their exercise. Mr. Dupr^ then promised him he should
be sent down to the Circars as soon as he had been there his
time. . . All the cadets on this establishment were a few days
ago appointed ensigns. My brother has been very lucky in
getting a commission so soon . . . ; but General Coote since
his arrival has been the means of great alterations in the
military corps." There are accounts of disputes between Mr.
Dupre and General Coote, as well as between the Governor and
the Commodore.'^) Much alarm is felt at the non-arrival of
the Aurora. I am as far off promotion as I was a year ago
owing to the number of captains sent out by the Company.
It is reported that the Coast troops are to be brigaded as in
Bengal. I have now commanded this garrison upwards of a
year. Captain Madge, who is riot hopeful of early promotion,
is engaged with Poligars near Samulcotah.
" I heard from cousin Thomas some days ago. He is well.
He still remains at Madrass. Cousin Robert was married to
Miss Stonehouse the 12th of June last, since which he writes
me he has been appointed third to a Council of revenues for
the Bahar Province, and that he and Mrs. Palk will shortly
set out for Patna ..."
"Thomas Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.]
[No. 107.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1770, October 1st. Fort St. George.^ — The Government have
appointed two sets of Merchants to provide the Company's
Investment. The first set, consisting of " Chippermall Chitty,
myself, Subrumania Chitty, Lingapa Chitty, Condepah Chitty
and Audynarayenah Chitty " are to supply longcloth,
salempores, moorees, ginghams, Conjeveram beteelas and
muslin handkerchiefs to the value of Pags. 108,000. The other
set, comprising " Mannar Chitty, and Arnachella Chitty," will
provide longcloth, beteelas Oringal and beteelas Pulicate.
" Madavaraw would on no account whatsoever make up
matters with Hyder. He left 30,000 horses under the command
of Gopalraw in Hyder's country, and is gone back to his country
[in] June last. It is reported that Madaviraw himself will be
(1) John Palk.
(2) Sir John Lindsay,
137 [No. 107.
in Hyder's country [in] January next, and if we don't assist
Hyder the Marattys will certainly ruin him, and we are uncertain
what troubles the Marattys may give us afterwards."
Bengal is much reduced by famine, the scarcity of rice being
unprecedented. The Armenian and native merchants have
commissioned a ship for Manila this year. The French are
receiving supplies of men and military stores. " The French
Settlements in India are entirely delivered up to the French
King, and Mr. Lawd) is appointed Marshall de Camp and
King's Governour, and they have now at Pondichery nine
himdred soldiers and four hundred seapoys . . ."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 108.]
Jos[iAs] Du Pre to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1770, October 4th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, Give me
leave in a few words, for I have not time for more, to thank you
for your two obhging letters of the 11th November, 1769, and
9th March, '70. You will have grief enough on hearing that we
have no news of the Commissioners. I shall therefore say no
more than that it is a disappointment to us, who, far from fearing
the result of their enquirys and the effects of their power,
thought them the only means by which we could find redress,
and effectually refute the malevolent insinuations which must
have gone home in private letters and have been magnified
there to answer private purposes.
" You say Coote was to have the same powers General
Lawrence had. You will find his ideas run much higher : he
thinks himself above controul. We would not submit to be
trampled on, and so he refused to sit with us or to act, and is
gone down to Bengal*^' in a great huff. How he will be received
there I cannot tell. It would take up a volume to give you the
history of our quarrell : my brother Alexander will be able to
give it to you at large. We have also been drawn into a
correspondence with Sir John Lindsay, by which I suppose
we shall draw on ourselves the vengeance of the Ministry who-
sent him out. These are dangerous times, and I wish I was
well out of them. What is doing between Sir John and the
Nabob, I can't say, but I believe no good to the Company or
their servants now and for years past. We are no more what
we were. We have neither controul nor influence over the
Nabob. People at home think him full of virtue and honor.
Good God ! that a man so devoid of both should by deceit have
acquired such a character ! You hope, now that peace is
concluded, we may be able to put the immense length of country
we have to protect into a better state of management and
(1) Jean Law, Governor of Pondicherry.
(2) Coote changed his mind at the last moment and went to England via Basra.
No. 108.] 138
security ; but how, my friend, are we to do [it] ? The Company
abuse us like pick-pockets, send over a military officer to quarrell
with and tyrannise over us and throw us into confusion. The
Government send Sir John Lindsay to threaten and awe us, to
wrest all our actions into crimes and to support the Nabob
(perverse enough before) against all our measures ; and then,
if misfortunes happen, we must bear the whole. I tell you, my
friend, the Company's affairs never were in so dangerous a way.
We are surrounded with enemys, and the most dangerous are
neither Hyder, the Morattas, the Soubah or the French.
" I hope Mr. Hastings will write you more at large of our
situation. I have no rest night or day. 'Tis a great comfort
in my distress to have such a man as Mr. Hastings. We are
upon the best terms, and he supports me cordially. I think
myself obliged to you for your friendly letters : you will add
to the obligation if you will not expect long answers. Mrs.
Du Pre expects next month to be in the straw : she joins to
mine her sincere good wishes for your and Mrs. Palk's health
and happiness. I am, dear Sir, your most obedient humble
servant,
[Holograph, 3 pp.. Mo.] " Jos. Du Pre."
[No. 109.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1770, October 9th. Fort St. George. — I miss my friends who
sailed in the Britannia, especially Mr. Call, with whom I lived
from the time I quitted the army. I am now in the office
under Mr. Goodlad, but should like to change to the Accountant's
branch. From " the intimate friendship that appeared to
me to subsist between you and Mr. Hastings it was natural for
me to expect he would pay some kind of attention to me, but
to my surprize he never once asked me in his house ; though
from one in his station, and so superciliously disposed, it is not
extraordinary. Mr. Morse is exceeding kind to me and very
much my friend." I thank you for the allowance of Pags. 20
per month, which you have made me. My brother in Bengal
has been very good in sending consignments of raw silk to me
and Mr. James Call jointly. He has lately been appointed to
Patna. " I make no doubt. Sir, but you will be surprized to
hear that he was, on the 12th June last, married to Miss Ston-
house, sister of Mrs. George Vansittart's, a very agreeable girl,
and above all a young lady of sense . . ."
No news has been received of the Aurora since she left the
Cape ten months ago. " I feel greatly for poor Mrs. Van :
the loss of a husband and son*^' at once must be a killing stroke
to her. Mr. and Mrs. Morse are very deeply afflicted ..."
(1) Arthur, second son of Henry Vansittart, accompanied his father. The latter,
writing from Madeira on the 16th Oct., 1769, says, " Arthur is well, makes a good
sailor, takes well to his Persian." (Brit. Mus. Add. MSS. 34,686.)
139 [No. 109.
The Governor and Council are much at variance with General
Coote and Sir John Lindsay, and the General is about to sail
for Bengal. I laid aside the sword with regret and only in
deference to the wishes of my friends.
"Tho. Palk."
" P-S. — AsJ should be very glad to peruse some of the latest
of the old news papers and magazines, I hope your goodness
will excuse the liberty I take of requesting you will enclose me
a few now and then. . ." My respects to the General and
" to that good lady Mrs. Bourchier."
[Holograph, 7| pp., Uo.]
[No. 110.]
Warren Hastings to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr,
1770, October 12th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, I wrote
to you two letters by the Anson, and informed you that I had
taken the liberty to consign two bulses of diamonds to you,
requesting you to sell them and pay the amount of them, of
one to Mrs. Hancock and of the other to Mrs. Ironside, for whose
use they were sent. Enclosed are duplicate bills of lading
and invoices of both.
"I have since received ^your favors of the 10th November
and 23rd March last, with two recommendations, which I will
gladly comply with as far as I am able. Mr. Morse has also
communicated to me, by your desire, several letters from you
to him and Mr. Van, for which I return you my thanks. I wish
I could give you any hope of the Aurora, or could form a
conjecture that could account for her long absence on the
supposition of her safety. I fear it is now impossible.
" I presented your letter to the Nabob, who received it with
great demonstrations of friendship both for you and for myself,
for which I am obliged to you. I will with great pleasure join
Messrs. Morse and Goodlad in the charge of your affairs whenever
they shall have any occasion for my assistance. They cannot
be in better hands than those they are now in. I am glad to
hear that my French bill has been received, and thank you
for clearing off so much of my bill due to Sumner.*^) The rest
I hope is by this time discharged.
" I shall write to you a second letter by this packet, and shall
only add in this my desire to be kindly remembered to Mrs.
Palk, the General and such of my friends as you shall meet with.
I have written a long letter to Mr. Sulivan, which I have desired
him to shew you.
" I am, dear Sir, your most obedient and obliged humble
servant,
[Holograph, 2 pp., Mo.] " Warren Hastings."
(1) William Brightwell Sumner. Cf. No. 88, p. 118, note 1.
140
[No. 111.]
Warren Hastings to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1770, October 12th. Fort St. George.— " Dear Sir, This
letter requires no apology. I have been informed that his
Excellency<i) has written a long remonstrance either to the King
or to Sir J[ohn] L[indsay] for his M[ajesty]'s information,
containing the particulars of all the injuries, indignities and
losses which he has sustained from the Company and their
Governors since his connection with them ; that yourself and
Lord Pigot stand among the foremost of these, charged with
such high crimes and misdemeanors as, if true, would cost
you (to use the expression delivered me) both your heads ; and
that whatever had been at any time received by either of you
from his Excellency as pledges of his benevolence was extorted
from him by violence and contrary to his inclination. This
information I received in confidence from Mr. Brooke, (^) by
whose permission and desire I repeat it to you, that you may
be upon your guard against the effects of such an attack, if it
be true that such an one is made upon you. He had it from a
friend, who told it to him with authority, having himself
received it from some of Sir J. L.'s family who had read the
remonstrance. I am told I am also begrimed in the same black
list, I am sure without cause.
" Stone has already told you that you could not expect any
recommendation of young Griffiths in our general letters. It
is peremptorily forbid. But I hope you will have interest to
obtain his appointment. He is a good, well tempered, decent
boy. He has been lately admitted into Stone's office, and is
as good a hand as Stone has, willing and improvable. He will
do credit to the service, and I heartily wish you may be able
to place him in it. He lives with me, is stout and healthy,
and advances fast towards six feet.
" We are still in peace abroad, but in open war at home.
General Coote is returning to England in disgust, because we
will not acknowledge his supremacy. Sir J. L. stays, because
(as I suppose) his Excellency acknowledges his supremacy.
Appeals will be made by both to their respective constituents,
and all the powers of the Company and of the Crown called upon
to punish us for disobedience, contumacy and rebellion. The
history of these contests is too long for a letter. I never was
concerned in any business in which I was so perfectly satisfied
of the propriety of my own conduct as in both these instances,
yet I doubt the issue of them at home.
" The Ministry will certainly support Sir J. Lindsay, and if
Coote's friends are in the Direction, they will justify him. Yet
I think it impossible to furnish reasons for either. I am very
uneasy at the dismal, prospects which these contests afford me,
(1) Nawab Walajah.
(21 Henry Brooke. Vide No. 31, p. 51, note 2.
141 [No. 111.
and more for other more alarming symptoms which I dare not
mention. I have been able to write only to Mr. Suhvan, and
to him I have been very expHcit.
" I hope I am not unreasonable in desiring your advice and
information where you think either may prove of utility to me,
as in a thousand instances it would be. I write this in the
Council Chamber, and have not time to add more, though I have
much that I wish to say to you.
"I am, with a real regard and esteem, dear Sir, your most
obedient servant,
[Holograph, SJ pp., 4to.] " Warren Hastings."
[No. 112.]
Reyno[ld] Adams'I) to [Robert Palk, Esqr.J.
1770, October 12th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, ... Mr.
John Palk ... is arrived safe ; has been, since he came, in
cantonment at Ponamallee, and is going shortly to the north-
ward. Mr. Thomas Palk is here and very well." I shall
render them every service in my power. I hope you duly
received the pipe of madeira which I sent you by the Britannia.
" Be pleased. Sir, to present my best compliments to Mrs.
Palk and to the fair Miss Nancy.'^) She may be assured that
her house in Fort St. George shall not be neglected, but all
possible care taken to preserve and keep it in good repair. . .
Bengal has and does groan under a most dreadful famine and
pestilence, which has swept off many thousands. . . The Morse
is not yet arrived. I understand there is a person!^' on her
appointed to succeed me. I hope I shall not be superceded . ."
[Holograph, 3 pp., Uo.] " Reyno- Adams."
[No. 113.]
Nawab Walajah to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1770, October 12th. Madrass. — " I received your letter of
the 10th November, and understand the contents. Mr. Van-
sittart's not being heard of must give you great concern, as
it does me and all his friends here. General Coote also is going
to Bengal, so that what the Company expected from the great
abilities of these gentlemen coming here is come to nothing.
The Carnatick is as much exposed and threatened as ever. I
am very glad that you, the. General and your family are well.
I wish you a continuance of health and happiness."
[Autograph cipher, 1 p., 4to.]
[No. 114.]
Henry Brooke to Robert Palk, Esqr., London.
1770, October 12th. Fort St. George. — The mortgage bond
of my three houses here will expire in September next. I am
(1) Reynold Adams, a Madras free-merchant of 1764, was appointed Master
Attendant (or Harbour Master) in succession to George Baker.
(2) Anne, elder daughter of Governor Palk.
(3) George Taswell, afterwards Master Attendant.
No. 114.] 142
willing'to renew for a further period of five years if we can agree
as to terms.
" Henry Brooke."
[Autograph, 1 p., Mo.]
[No. 115.]
Nic[holas] Morse to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1770, October 12th. Fort St. George. — " Since what I
mentioned to you concerning General Coote, I have since been
told that he designed [to have] gone for Bengal, but that was
not allowed, and that [he] has now determined to proceed to
Europe, and the Hawke man of war [is] to land him at Bussorah,
who sails to-morrow. This is the news of the day . . ."
" Nic. Morse."
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo,]
[No. 116.]
R[ober]t D[unca]n Munro<i' to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1770, October 12th. Madras. — I thank you for your careful
execution of the trust placed in you by my deceased father.
By the death of Mr. Fergussoni^) you are left my only friend in
England. My mother and sister join me in good wishes for
yourself and family.
" RT- D^- MuNRO."
[Autograph, 3 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 117.]
J[ohn] M[axwell] Stone to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1770, October 12th. Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, . . . Our
situation becomes every day more precarious. Maudavarow
is expected to return as soon as the season will admit in order
to make another attempt to reduce Hyder, who warmly solicits
our aid ; and the Nabob as strenuously urges oxir joining the
Morattas, notwithstanding it is evident that, if Mysore were
once reduced to the Moratta yoke, the Carnatic would be
constantly exposed to their ravages. They would soon overrun
the whole province with their numerous bodies of cavalry
without our being able to bring them to action. Our care must
be confined to our forts, which must also soon fall for want of
revenue to pay the troops for their defence. It should therefore
seem that it is not for the interest of the Carnatic that Hyder
should be entirely reduced, as he is the only check on the
Moratta power in these parts ; for while he is in a condition
to oppose them we may hope for peace. But it is to be feared
that he will scarce be able to withstand the force they can, and
probably will, bring against him. . . Although peace ought to
(1) Vide No. 33, p. 55, note 2.
(2) William Pergusson. Vide No. 3, p. 7, note 2. •
143 [No. 117.
be our principal object, and we should strenuously avoid all
measures that may tend to involve us in war, yet, if we could
assist Hyder effectually, our interest as well as engagements
with him would lead us to do so rather than see his country
added to the power of the Morattas. But we have not the
means within ourselves, and without them it would be imprudent
to attempt. For want therefore of ability, we must remain
quiet untill we are actually attacked ..." We had hoped
something from the arrival of the Commissioners, but it is
feared that some fatal accident has befallen their ship.
" To increase our perplexity and embarrassments we have
lately been engaged in very disagreeable altercations with Sir
John Lindsay and General Coote . . . On Sir John Lindsay's
arrival the letters and presents from their Majesty s were,
agreeable to the Company's orders, delivered to him to be
presented to the Nabob. He soon after took an opportunity
of acquainting the Governor with the plenipotentiary powers
with which he was invested by the King to treat with the Princes
of India. His first application to the Board was for them to
attend him in the delivery of the letters and presents to the
Nabob. This the Board declined, since their acquiescence
would have degraded this Government into a mere attendant,
and which would not fail lessening its authority in the eyes of
the country Powers . . . Sir John Lindsay then required to be
put in possession of our original proceedings, or authenticated
copies of them, with respect to the Nabob, the Soubah and other
Powers of India since the conclusion of the Treaty of Paris, to
enable him to make a faithfull report to His Majesty of the rise
and progress of the war with the Soubah and Hyder Ally. In
answer to which he was told that the whole of our proceedings
were transmitted to the Company, to whom application might
be made in a regular and proper manner; that we had no
authority to expose the records of the Company to the inspection
of any individual, and which our oaths and covenants to the
Company prevented us from doing. He at last, in the course
of his correspondence, required the counsel and advice of the
Board to enable him to treat with the Powers of India ; and
offered the sanction of His Majesty's name to give weight to
our negotiations. To which it was replied that we had all
reason to believe the Company were entirely unacquainted with
the powers with which he was invested ; that we understood
from the publick papers and pamphlets that the Ministry did
apply to the Court of Directors to give the Commander of His
Majesty's ships in India a seat and voice in their councils
abroad ; that this proposal was laid before a Court of Proprietors
and formally rejected. That we could not therefore agree to
what our constituents had refused. This, my dear Sir, is a brief
recital of what hath passed with respect to Sir John Lindsay.
I shall only add that we begin to feel very sensibly the ill effects
of these very extraordinary and unprecedented powers ; and if
No. 117.] 144
the Company do not take some measures very speedyly, they
may bid farewell to all influence and consequence in India.
" I come to General Coote, who arrived here very full of the
powers granted him by his commission of Commander-in-Chief,
which I must acquaint you is exactly the same as that granted
to General Lawrence. He has indeed, by the Company's orders,
a power of calling for returns from the several Presidencies,
and is authorized to form a general plan of discipline for the
whole. The first difficulty which occurred was the manner in
which he should be given out in orders. The Board would not
consent to his being given out simply as Commander-in-Chief,
since the Governor's commission as Commander-in-Chief must
thereby be abrogated. It was therefore proposed that the
Company's orders of February, 1766, (wherein the powers of
the Governor are fully, clearly and positively laid down . . .)
should be given out at the same time. To this General Coote
objected. . . It was then proposed that circular letters should
be wrote by the Board to the several commanding officers,
directing them to make returns to General Coote in the same
manner as to the Governor, and for them and all others to obey
him as their superior officer. This General Coote approved,
and letters were wrote accordingly." Shortly afterwards he
put forward a plan for the seniority and promotion of officers
and their distribution to commands, which, as it ignored the
control and approbation of Government, was rejected. The
question as to the superiority of his or the Governor's commission
was decided in favour of the latter. " General Coote then
withdrew, and declared his resolution of remaining here in a
private station untill he could receive the sentiments of the
other Presidencies respecting his commission. We have sent
a particular account of the above correspondence to Bengali,
to which place General Coote purposed proceeding ; but he has
since altered his resolution, and embarks to-morrow on the
Hawke sloop of war, which Sir John Lindsay has lent him, in
order to go to Bussorah, and from there over-land to England.
His sudden arrival will no doubt have a strange effect in
Leaden Hall Street. A short letter is, however, now wrote to
the Company to go by the same way, advising them thereof,
and desiring them to suspend their judgment till the arrival
of the Lapwing.
" I have thus, my dear Sir, given you as particular an account
of our situation as time will admit ; and I believe you will
readily allow that, what with Morattas, Hyder, Sir John
Lindsay and General Coote, we have had trouble and vexation
enough ..."
"J. M. Stone."
{Holograph, 9 pp., flscp.]
145
[No. 118.]
W[illiam] M[ab,tin] GooDLAD'to [RoBERT Palk, Esqi.J.
1770, October 12th.~" My dear Friend ... We still continue
in peace, but how long it will last I think is very uncertain.
It appears to me that the neutral part we have hitherto pursued
cannot much longer be supported. The Marattas will not let
us be quiet, and our situation is altogether exceedingly critical.
We are surrounded with difficulties, and those of a nature which
it appears impossible to surmount. The Nabob is totally
changed. Presents and letters from the King have turned his
brain. He looks for support from thence, and the friendship
of the Company seems scarcely a consideration with him. He
shews himself every day more independant, and hence springs
our grand obstacle. He has an inveterate enmity against
Hyder, and wishes to overthrow him even at the ruin of himself.
If we must take part in the Mysore quarrel, we ought doubtless
to make Hyder our friend — he is the only barrier against the
Marattas ; but the Nabob will not hear of it, and prefers the
Council at any rate to join the Marattas to effect the overthrow
of the other, though it is evident that the Carnatic will next
fall a prey to them. To join Hyder by ourselves is
impracticable : to support the Marattas is impolitic to the last
degree. If we could remain as hitherto it would be well, but
I must say that I have scarcely a doubt but that in three months
the scene will be totally altered. We are bound to see it out.
But this is only one of our difficulties.
" Sir John Lindsay arrived here in July, and to our great
astonishment declared himself Ambassador and Plenipotentiary
from his Majesty to treat with the Princes of India. Such secret,
independant and unprecedented powers are truely alarming.
The Company (as we imagine) wholely unacquainted with their
existance, had been entirely silent on the subject, and the
Governor and Council were obliged to withstand the attacks
of the Plenipo, and support the cause of their constituents',
uninstructed by them in the smallest degree . . . The Company's
loss of influence is every day more visible, and the most trifling
exertion of Sir John's authority will render them cyphers
indeed ... To me it appears that Sir John's powers strike
at the very root of the Company's existance.
" I have told you . . . how totally the Nabob is changed.
You will naturally conclude that the Ambassador's presence
tends not a little to widen the breach with the Company. Every
action, every letter from him breathes independance with
respect to the Company, and reliance for support on the Crown.
Judge then of our situation. We are not the same beings as
when you left us.
" But the discription of difficulties does not end here.
General Coote came amongst us as Commander in Chief of all
the forces in India under the respective Presidencies. As such
he thought himself supreme and independant, and refused to
No. 118.] 14,6
submit to the approbation of the Council matters which have
ever been within their immediate province. He regarded his
commission as superior to that of the Governor, and the
arrangement of officers as depending on himself alone. The
Governor, who, you well know, bears a commission of
Commander in Chief ; who the Company have declared to be
their superior military officer ; who was clearly pointed out
as such when the old General and you were amongst us, could
not depart from his authority : he had it not in his power to
relinquish the trust reposed in him. Dissentions ensued ; the
point of seniority became the subject of debate. The Council
were unanimous in giving it to the Governor. General Coote
refused to act, retired as a private gentleman, and is now^'on his
way to Bengal ..."
What the intentions of the Company were in giving the General
his commission it is hard to say. Time will show. " The
command of the military must rest in the Board or, if seperated,
our system must be wholely altered, for the direction of military
and political matters cannot be divided : they are inseperable.
Take away one, and you must take the other ; and consequently
the Council, though charged with the protection of the Carnatic,
become mere providers of long cloth ordinary."
13th October. — Coote has since decided on going to Europe,
and the Hawke, sloop, conveys him to Basra. The Bengal
Council are understood to approve our action in regard to both
the General and Sir John Lindsay.
" I have said above that the Nabob is totally changed. An
instance this moment occurs to prove that he will do every
thing in his power to represent the servants of the Company
in the worst colours. You remember the orders from home
about reducing the interest to 10 per cent. They were positive,
and directed the dismission of all who should lend at an higher
rate. His Excellency has just wrote a letter to the Board
representing that Charles Smith,(i) Monckton,!^) &c. (without
mentioning other names) have lent money in the Jaguire'^' at
the accumulating interest of 54 per cent, per annum, which
he, to preserve the Company's possessions from utter ruin, has
made good to them at his own immediate expence. The charge
is heavy : that the money was lent is certain, and that the
orders of the Company are positive is equally so. It may
possibly go hard with them : but will you believe me when I
tell you that this money was absolutely lent with the Nabob's
(1) Charles Smith, a Madras civil servant of 1764, was in Council twenty years
later. On the suspension of Whitehill in 1780 he served as provisional Governor
until Macartney's arrival. He married first Elizabeth Carvalho in 1762, and
secondly Frances Law in ] 772.
(2) The Hon. Edward Moncktou, who entered the Madras civil service in 1762,
conducted a mission to Quedah ten years later. He married Sophia, elder daughter
of Lord Pigot, in 1776.
(3) The Company's Jaghire (from Pers. and Hind, jaglr, an assignment of land)
comprised grants of territory made by Nawab Muhammad All in 1750, 1756
and 1763. The area embraced the greater part of the present Chingleput District.
147 [No. 118.
consent, and that there is the strongest presumptive proof that
it was actually borrowed by himself ! Tis scarcely credible !
But a charge like this is nuts to an Ambassador, and a noble
bone for the Ministry to get hold of against the Company and
their servants . . ."
No payments have been made to the Nawab's creditors.
The Commissioners have instructions, but they, alas, have not
been heard of since they left the Cape.
" Taken all in all, our situation is critical indeed. The
Council, I think, were never so responsible for their conduct as
at this juncture ; the Nabob doing every thing to thwart them ;
a Government spy picking holes in their coat on every occasion,
and the Commander of the Army bellowing out vengeance
because he cannot be supreme. They have need of every
support at home. If they meet with it, matters may again
be conducted in their former channel. If they fall, a great
remove must take place, for they are unanimous in their conduct.
Desirous as I am of distinguishing myself in the Company's
service, it would concern me to rise by such a step. I shall
wait this and other great events with a becoming patience . . .
" Every thing is quiet in Bengal, but the most terrible famine
ever known has raged throughout the provinces for many
months. Calcutta itself has felt the dreadfull effects of it, and
when the last letters came away the dead were still laying in
heaps about the streets. This has naturally made Calcutta
very sickly to the Europeans, and indeed great numbers have
been carried off. Tis asserted that more than two millions
have been swept away in the different provinces. We have
also been very sickly here, and the liver has prevailed more
than I ever remember it before. Charles Westcott'i' was carried
off by it, and many others have been in great danger. Captain
Frazer<2' is at last no more.
" Your nephew Tom and his cousins are all well. Snelling(^)
has had the money advanced him which you desired, and a
trifle more. I have got him to Pallamcotah, where George
Brown'*' will take care of him : he is a promising young man . . .
The affair which you entrusted to Moodu Kistnah and me shall
very shortly be adjusted ... I now enclose you a bill for £400,
being the money given by the Nabob to Withecombe's
friends ..."
[Holograph, 10 pp., Mo.]
«W. M. GOODLAD."
(1) Charles Westcott, a free merchant of 1768, died in September, 1770.
(2) Captain Robert Eraser died in May, 1770.
(3) J. Snelling. Vide No. 87, p. 115.
(*) Captain George Brown commanded a battalion of native infantry in the
first Mysore war, and was present at the battles of Changama and Trinomalai.
In 1780, as Lieut. Colonel, he conducted a Madras force to Surat to join General
Goddard's expedition to Guzerat ; and in the following year he commanded a
brigade in the second battle of Polilur under Sir Eyre Coote.
148
[No. 119.]
Rob[er]t Palk to [William Martin Goodlad].
1770, December 7th. Received 11th July, 1771, per
Horsenden. — " My dear Billy, I have both your letters of the
6th February and 8th April.m I have been long a stranger to
the politics in Leadenhall Street, but I could never have con-
ceived the giving up of the Circars to be a part of them, and
hope they are wiser than to entertain such a notion, since most
of the force may be drawn from them upon occasion, and still
Masulipatam, Ganjam, &c., be preserved.
" I am disquieted beyond measure about the safety of the
Aurora, and begin almost to despair of it . . .
" You do well, my friend, to interest yourself so deeply in
the Company's prosperity, and I doubt not in due time your
thorough knowledge of their affairs will be amply rewarded.
" The Nabob's creditors' agents have hitherto made little
stir in their commission, most of them as individuals being
inclined to do as you and others have done in India, and expect
justice from the Company, who in the end will certainly give
their assistance . . .
" You reason very justly on the subject of Colonel Wood's
dismission, and I wonder the Governor and Council did not,
to silence all clamor, make known their reasons for disagreeing
with the Court martial and dismissing the Colonel. I have
long entertained the same opinion with you of Call : from the
moment the conquest of Misore was projected I foresaw the
impracticability of the wild plan and dreaded the event, and
was heartily sorry our friend B. had so readily submitted his
own judgment to such an extravagant idea. That sore is now
in some measure healed, and if you could avoid taking part
with Hyder or the Marattas, I think we shall soon arrive at
our former prospect of prosperity.
" Mr. Bourchier was very well received by the Court of
Directors, and having no party to support or enemies to contend
with, I think he will very happily enjoy the fruit of his labors
among those he loves . . . His father,'^* after living to see his
sons so happily returned, expired in their arms last week . . .
" We are preparing with all our might for war Avlth Spain,
whose Ambassador, however, having full powers to settle the
dispute, we have some reason to expect an accommodation,
more especially as the French are not prepared for war, their
finances being undoubtedly in a much worse state than ours,
and their country laboring under a prodigious scarcity of grain
and a bad vintage.
" Little Dick(^) is all ready for imbarking . . . No contest
this year for Directors. Opposition has been crushed with a
(1) Nos. 91 and 96.
(2) Richard Bourchier, a, " seafaring man " of Madras, was appointed Chief at
Anjengo in 1743, and subsequently became Governor of Bombay.
(3) Richard Goodlad, brother of W. M. Goodlad.
149 [No. 119.
vengeance, and they make Sulivan the amende honorable by
readmitting him to their society in April : indeed it seems
necessary that there should be somebody there a little
acquainted with India matters ... I am always, my dear Billy,
your sincere, affectionate and obliged friend,
" RoBT. Palk."
[P.S.J— " Thank ye for the bill of 100?.
" 12th December. — ^Alas, my friend, it is but too true that you
had no accounts of the Aurora the 14th June. Our only small
hopes now are on Batavia, or that after attempting the Coast
she is gone to the Maldivias or Bengal.
" Two days since I was surprized with an intended appoint-
ment of a Mr. Stewart'!' to be Secretary at Madras. I
acquainted Mrs. Goodlad, and we are trying to prevail on our
friends that you may at least have it in your option to remain
your own time. They say they mean no ill to you, but the
contrary, but that this same gentleman, whom I know not,
must be provided for."
{Holograph, 3J pp., Uo.\
[No. 120.]
Rob[er]t Palk to W[illia]m M[artin] Goodlad, Fort St.
George.
1770, December 13th. London. Received June 1771, by
Mr. Ley.—" Dear Billy, The bearer, Mr. Ley of the Ponsborne,
being a particular friend, I request your notice of him and
advising him of any thing that may be of benefit to him in his
voyage. Yours most sincerely,
"RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, ^p., Uo. Wax seal with crest, defaced.]
[No. 121.]
Rob[ee]t Palk to Mrs. Goodlad.
1771, January 4th. Haldon House. — " Dear Madam, Finding
Mr. Bourchier's letter in my possession, 'tis proper to return it
to you, as you may think necessary to send it to Billy.
" I have talked to several of the Directors on this subject,
and most of them know nothing of the matter, and all seem
well inclined to be well pleased and satisfyed with the present
. Secretary ; but as Mr. Bourchier thinks Billy wants to be
reUeved from the post, we must rest satisfyed that they will
recommend at least his being taken care of. Mr. Bourchier,
however, I think must be mistaken that the Governor and
Council have requested a perpetual Secretary, for I think Mr.
Du Pre and every Governor would chuse to keep the appoint-
ment of so material an assistant to himself. However this be,
IVToiin Stewart (or Stuart). Vide No. 256, p. 252, note 3.
No. 121.J 150
I have no doubt of Billy's deserving the attention of the
Directors, and if wrong is done him in this instance they
must make amends.
" I am come here from Berkshire for a few days all alone. I
wish you and all yours most heartily many, many happy new
years ; and by the help of pressing, and bad weather, may yet
return soon enough to see Mr. Richard before he imbarks. If
I should not, pray give him my sincerest wishes.
" I am always, dear Madam, your faithful and obliged humble
servant,
" Robt. Palk."
[Holograph, Ij p., Mo.]
[No. 122.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, January 21st. Fort St. George. — Received 12th July.
" Dear Sir, . . Mr. and Mrs. Morse are both well but much
afflicted, as well as myself, at the non-arrival of the Aurora,
which we are much affraid leaves very little hope of her safety,
notwithstanding the supposition of her having gone to the
Brazils . . . Mr. Tom Palk and his two cousins to the north-
ward are well . . . One Mr. Taswell, who, I apprehend, you have
heard of, is come out to succeed me in my employ,'^' and I hear
is arrived at Bombay. This, I am informed, is in consequence
of a report that I was about to come home, though I never
dropped a hint of such a thing, nor can I entertain any thoughts
of that sort for some years to come." I hope you will prevent
my supersession.
Captain Madge is anxious that the collections on account of
Captain Cranch's estate should be remitted. Two methods
offer ; Company's bills at 8*. 5d. per pagoda payable in three
years without interest, or private bills at 7s. 4>d. from Pelling
and de Fries payable in 90 days. The former method appears
the more favourable, but as cash must be paid in dollars, which
are hard to procure, I am remitting by private bill.
" Reyno- Adams."
[Holograph, 3j pp., 4to.]
[No. 123.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1771, January 22nd. Fort St. George. Received 12th
July. — I have not time to write, as the ship Houghton sails
to-day and I have much to do. "My brother Bob is married,
of which I imagine he has acquainted you with. My love to
Mrs. P. and family. Your most dutifull, &c., nephew,
"Thomas Palk."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo.]
(1) As Master Attendant, i.e.. Harbour Master, at Madras.
151
[No. 124.]
Ensign J[ohn] Palk to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1771, February 2nd. Camp near Samulcotah. — " Sir, After
the great kinesses and civilitys I received from you while in
London it would be ingrateful in me should I omit any oppor-
tunity of letting you hear from me. . . We sailed from Spithead
the 11th of January with a fair wind that carried us clear of
the Channel and to the Island Madeira in three weeks. We
stopped there 10 days, during which time I found the place
very agreable, the English merchants residing there being very
hospitable people.
" After having sailed from Madeira we had a pleasant passage
untill doubling the Cape of Good Hope, where we meet with
severe weather and were harassed about for some weeks, in
which time we had the misfortune to loose several topmasts
and to have our rigging damaged much, so that it was no small
satisfaction to all on board to double that dangerous promontory.
We had a very pleasant passage the remaining part of the time
we stayed on board ship, and arrived at Johanna'^' the 25th
of May. On our landing we found the island very pleasant and
agreable. Having stopped there five days, we sailed for
Madrass and landed safe on the 30th of June to the great joy
of all the passengers. I was much surprised to find the Super-
visors had not been seen on the Coast nor heard of, and am sorry
to tell you that they are now given over for lost . . .
" On my landing I meet with my cousin, who behaved very
kind and genteel to me. . . The letter you was so kind as to
give me to Mr. Dupre, after several applications got me changed
from General Coote's regiment at Poonamallee that was formed
of this year's recruits, where I was first appointed, into Captain
Madge's battallion of seapoys at Samulcotah. I am very much
pleased with the situation, and likewise with my commanding
officer, who, I find, is worthy of the great character I have heard
given him in England.
" I have not seen my brother yet, but expect to see him in a
few days, as he is coming down from Condapillee in order to
join these six companies that are encamped near Samulcotah,
waiting for orders to march against the Totapillee Rajah, who
refuses to comply with the Company's demands in paying his
tribute. It is thought we shall have a despirate service of it,
as we shall be obliged to pursue them over the mountains,
which are very unhealthy, and where Europeans never were
before.
" General Coote behaved very kind to me, and I believe
would have done anything to serve me ; but his power here was
very little on account of the Governor and Council, who took
every step in their power to thwart his designs. A story prevails
here that he is comming out again. I could wish it were true.
(1) One of the Comoro Islands in the Mozambique Chamiel.
No. 124.] 152
" At present every thing is quiet at the southward. There
was a Morattoe war expected this season in the Carnatic,' but
I believe at this time it is all hushed up. I am, Sir, with the
greatest respect, your much obliged and most humble servant,
"J. Palk."
[Holograph, 2^ pp., Mo. Wax seal with Palk arms and crest.]
[No. 125.]
Chocapah to the Honourable Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, February 5th. Fort St. George. — The Merchants have
delivered a great part of the goods for the Company's Investment.
In Bengal there has been good rain and grain is fairly cheap,
though trade is bad. The news from Manila is that our people
have sold the " blue goods," but could not dispose of the
" paintingsfi) and chey goods. "(2) At Pondicherry affairs are
stationary through want of money.
" Madavarave with his large force came as far as the river
Kistna. His intention was to distroy Hyder first, then to
trouble us for money if we don't give him assistance ; but in
the meantime he had some family disputes, which obliged him
to return back to his country. . . Hyder is at Mysore, and
unable to beat off the Marattys that are in his country. . . I
can do nothing with Jangama Chitty. He is very poor, and
remains in prison for money due to Mr. Lewen Smith ..."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 1| p., flscp.]
[No. 126.]
W[illiam] M[aetin] Goodlad to R[obert] Palk, Esqr.
1771, February 7th. Fort St. George. — " His Excellency
[i.e. the Nawab] seems rather more reconciled to his old friends.
This, however, is regarded as a mere temporising scheme till
he can see what turn affairs will take at home. We are in
peace, and I think have nothing to fear during 1771. The
NabolD has promised to pay 10 lacks to his creditors during
the year . . ."
" W. M. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4>to.]
[No. 127.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Rob[ee,]t Palk, Esqr.
1771, February 8th. Fort St. George. — " I continue still
in Mr. Goodlad's office, the business of which I do with a great
deal of ease to myself, and I hope with a deal of satisfaction
to my Secretary. The Carnatic at present remains very quiet,
but the Morattoes have lately demanded the assistance of our
arms ; who have been refused . . . The Morattoes are now this
(1) Paintings, i.e., chintz coloured by hand or stamped with wood blocks.
(2) Chey, chay, from Tarn, saya, a plant whose root furnishes a fine red dye.
153 [No. 127.
side the Khistna and will very shortly move, 'tis feared, towards
the Carnatic. They have carried their conquests a great way
into the .Mysore country, having plundered and destroyed the
country to the very gates of his capital, and Hyder remains
shut up in Seringapatam . . .
" I make no doubt but my brother has long since acquainted
you with his change of life. I have received many very pressing
invitations to visit them, which I intend to do, and go down
in one of the September ships. All my country men in the
military are well, and very fine young fellows. My friend Major
Fitz-Gerald takes his passage on the Van-Sittart, who was
always kind to me . . ."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.]
Tho. Palk."
[No. 128.]
Tho[mas] Pai.k to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1771, February 8th. On board the Vansittart. — Letter of
introduction for Major Thomas FitzGerald.(i)
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4fo.]
[No. 129.]
Lieut. Thomas Palk to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, February 26th. Camp at Ragapatam. — I was relieved
at Condapilly in January, and on the 9th February I joined
Captain Madge at Samulcotah. He took the field against some
refractory poligars. " On the 20th we left Samalcottah with
6 companies of seapoys and 2 guns against the Polygars who had
occasioned the rupture, and are now advanced 50 miles into
their country, which is the most romantic I ever saw, being
covered with high naountains intercepted with pleasant valleys,
where are fine villages abounding with plenty of grain. The
Rajah of the country on hearing of our approach fled to his
strong holds further in among the hills. We have meet with
no opposition as yet from any of his people ; on the contrary,
numbers have excepted [sic\ of the company's cowl,'^' and put
themselves under our protection ... so that in all probability
the country will be soon settled and the Rajah drove out of it . . .
" By the last accounts from Bengali it is reported that
hostilities are commenced between Surajah Dowla<^' and the
Company . . . General Coote left India last November very
much dissatisfied with the reception he meet with from the
President and Council at Madrass . . .
" My brother was appointed to this battalion in November
last and joyned Captain Madge at Samalcotah soon after, who
has behaved excessive kind to him. He has made him a present
(1) Vide No. 144, p. 156.
(2) Cowl. Vide No. 14, p. 18, note 10.
(3) Shuja-ud-daula, Nawab Vizier of Gudh;
No. 129.] 154
of a horse and shewed him many other civilities ... I have
been honoured with but one letter from you since your return
to England. I seldom miss an opportunity of writing you,
and should think myself highly honoured were I to hear oftner
in return ..."
[Holograph, 3 pp., Mo.] " Thomas Palk."
[No. 130.]
Robert Palk to Messrs. Stone and Goodlad, Secretaries at
Fort St. George.
1771, March 14th. London. — " Gentlemen, I beg leave to
recommend to you Mr. Willet, Secretary to Sir Robert Harland,<i'
who being quite a stranger, your notice and assistance will be
of much use to him. I cannot think or write much on other
matters in this state of great uncertainty of the Aurora's safety."
" RoBT. Palk."
{Holograph, 1 p.. Mo. Wax seal, device defaced.]
[No. 131. J
Chocapah to the Honorable Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, March 23rd. Fort St. George. — There are reports
from England via Basra that war is about to break out in
Europe. Our Manila ship has arrived, bringing upwards of
200,000 dollars. Half as much again was sent to China on
Madras account.
" The Nabob made a grand wedding for his elder son,'^' and
is going to make another wedding to his second son.'^) The
wedding was very expencive and with the greatest pomp and
magnificence. We think we shall have no trouble at all with
the Marrattys this year ; and there are now some disputes
'arrising between the Nabob and the King of Ton j ore, but I hope
this will be made up in an amicable manner."
The Merchants have fulfilled the Investment contract. Most
of the goods have been delivered into the Company's warehouse,
and the balance is ready for sorting.
[Autograph, 1 p., flscp.] " Chocapah."
[No. 132.]
CusTOORY and Casavah to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, March 25th. Fort St. George.— Our family hal sus-
tained a great loss by the death of " our poor Rama Kisna " <*'
on the 9th February. Our chief anxiety is to preserve his
Charity Choultry, and we beg you to write to Mr. Hastings
about it.
[IJ p., Mo.] " Custoory and Casavah."
(1) Admiral Sir Robert Harland, Bt., succeeded Sir Joliu Lindsay, arriving at
Madras in September, 1771.
(2) TJmdat-ul-TJmara.
(3) Amir-uI-Umara.
(4) Cf. No. 77, p. 104.
155
[No. 133.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1771, March 26th. Fort St. George. — I have received your
letter of the 16th June.d) and rejoice that Mr. Bourchier's
reception was friendly. Your remarks about Calland are just :
he will probably return here this year.
" His Excellency has promised to pay ten lacks of his debt
in the course of the year, and the whole in fourteen months
should peace continue . . When you express your surprise
that the Governor and Council ever gave their sanction to the
Assignment, I know not what to make of you, for the Assignment
was actually made during your government. It bears date the
1st January, 1767, and the letter from the Nabob promising
such Assignment was received in the month preceding, so that
you were consenting. This circumstance, I imagine, must have
escaped your memory."
I have written to Mr. Purling as you suggested, and hope he
may get my brother Richard to Bengal this year.
" Although your last letter is silent on the subject of the
person'^) concerning whom you wrote to Moodu Kistnah and
me . . , I have lately had an interview with him. The terms
are settled agreeable to your recomniendation, and by the next
ship I shall write you the particulars. I have not yet drawn
on Mr. Morse on this account. Every thing has been managed
as you could wish, and nothing will transpire.
" By great good management we still continue in peace, but
we are surrounded with embarassments, and you cannot
conceive a Government more harassed and perplexed. But
for unanimity amongst ourselves every thing would be in the
utmost confusion. In this respect we are happy, and have
men of ability at the head of affairs. The Marattas and Hyder
still continue hard at it, and though the latter has lately suffered
a considerable defeat, he is not rendered incapable of prolonging
the war and giving them infinite trouble. This may probably
prevent their molesting us for some time, though we are not
without our apprehensions, for the late conduct of Tanjour
indicates a promise of support from some quarter, and we know
not whence it can come but from them. He has lately marched
a very large force against the Marawar,'^' and even laid siege
to the capital (Ramanadaporum). A compromise then ensued,
and he has returned to Tanjour. Though necessity obliged
us to look on upon this occasion, we were by no means silent,
and it is said that the Rajah's return was owing to our letters ;
but this will never serene him. The Treaty of 1762 with Tanjour
obliges us to support the cause of the Nabob. Marawar is
his tributary, and an attack might as well have been made upon
(1) Vide No. 98, p. 129.
(2) Royala Punt or Kajah Pundit. Cf. No. 70, p. 97, and No. 78, p. 108.
(3) The Marawar. Vide No. 19, p. 26, note 2.
No. 133.] 156
the Carnatic. Preparations have accordingly been made for
calhng him to account. Joe Smith''^' is gone for Trichenopoly,
and unless his Rajahship makes very humble submissions, blows
must ensue. But this is a most critical business. Circumstances
are not wanting to render it dangerous at any rate. If we
commence hostilities, we lay open to the Marattas ; Fazul Beg
Cawn<2) threatens the Circars, and advices from Bussera give
us reason to expect a national war. If we continue quiet, the
Nabob's Government is calmly suffered to be invaded ; we are
wanting in attention to the Treaty of Paris, which ensures the
peace of the Carnatic ; and the natural conclusion is that, were
the Carnatic itself attacked, we should be equally passive.
These are ministerial speeches from the mouth of our Minister
Plenipotentiary. He has lately wrote a letter accusing us of
this latter conduct. The answer is : — ' We account to our
superiors for what we do ' ; and my gentleman is left just as
wise as he was before. The N[abob]'s conduct has latterly
born more the appearance of confidence in us than it has before
since Sir John's arrival, but it is evident to me that he is merely
temporising. Matters cannot much longer continue in this
state. The orders from home must be decisive one way or the
other. Our authority and influence must be restored, or we
must be reduced as formerly to mere providers of long cloth
ordinary.
" In Bengal matters look threatening. A brigade is watching
the Marattas : Cossim'^) has collected a rabble of Pitans and
Rohillas with some disciplined seapoys under a soldier of
fortune, and is now to the northward of Delli, prepared to
join the Morattas should they invade the provinces. The
generality of people suspect that war must shortly ensue.
" From this sketch (run off in an hurry) you will be able to
form some judgment of the present posture of affairs — Nabob,
Plenipo, Tanjour, Marattas, Fazul Beg Cawn, Bengal — the letters
from the Court totally unconfidential, and the Council left
entirely without orders to guide them. Can you call to your
recollection circumstances half so intricate ? Our friend
Bourchier would have sunk under the weight of them. Du
Pre, though indefatigable, is almost harassed to death ; Hastings
knows not which way to turn himself, and the Secretaries (for
I am employed in all departments) have not a moment that they
dare call their own. - Glorious times ! Happy circumstances ! . . ."
" W. M. GOODLAD."
" P.S. 12 at night. — I have with much concern received
intelligence just now that Lieut. Thomas Palk died at Ellore
the 20th instant ..."
[Holograph, 7 pp., 4io.]
(1) General Joseph Smith.
(2) Fazil Beg Khan, the Nizam's bakhshi.
(3) Kasim Ali Khan. Vide No. 92, p. 122, note 2.
157
[No. 134.]
Rob[eb]t Palk to [William Martin Goodlad].
1771, April 2nd. London. — " My dear Billy, "I have received
your letter of the 12th and 13th October.'^) " I suppose we
shall hear more of the contents of them when Coote arrives :
hitherto he has not been heard of. The Court of Directors
judged they had given him the same powers with General
Lawrence ; but as there is hardly amongst the Directors any
who consider these matters attentively or endeavor to make
themselves masters of the Company's affairs, such jarring orders
and resolutions must always be the consequence. I was
amazed when I heard they had appointed Coote to sit as one
of the Commissioners. I took an opportunity to remonstrate
against the measure, and I thought they had altered it . . .
They are now, I hear, sending up a remonstrance to the King
against his intermeddling, and I suppose the commanding
officer will be told not to interfere, because the natural con-
sequence must be the destruction of the Company's authority.
They talk, I hear, of sending out more Commissioners, but I
know not where they are to look for them."
I told you of the intention to send out a Mr. Stewart as'^)
Secretary. This I was able to prevent, and I said much in
your favour. Hastings has been proposed for Bengal, and I
supported him, but Mr. Rumbold's(^> interest appears to
prevail.
" The loss of the Aurora, for I now give her entirely up, is a
most severe stroke indeed to all this family. Henry VanSittart
goes a Writer to Bengal in the Colebrooke. I hope you correspond
fully with Mr. Purling, who, I find, is to be the next Chairman.
For once there is to be no contest at the next election. Sulivan
comes in singly with the consent of all parties. I should have
thought, after all that is passed and in such times as these,
he had better have relinquished so troublesome and, to him,
so very unprofitable an employ. However, it is to him the
summum honum . . ."
"Robt Palk."
[Holograph, 3| pp., Mo.]
[No. 135.]
Colonel Gilbert Ironside'*' to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, April 7th. Fort Wilham. — " Sir, I cannot let the
earliest occasion escape of rendering my sincerest acknowledge-
ments for your polite and friendly offers to Mrs. Ironside, whose
happiness, of every thing on this side heaven, lies nearest my
heart.
(1) Vide No. 118, p. 145.
(2) John Stewart. Vide No. 256, p. 252, note 3.
(3) Thomas Rumbold, afterwards Governor of Madras. Vide No. 320, p. 315,
note 4.
(4) Gilbert Ironside. Vide No. 94, p. 124, note 2.
No. 135.1 158
" My request, to Mr. Van Sittart to furnish her with money
was made at a time when I had no opportunity to make the
. remittances I wished. I have since found means to get home a
few thousand pounds ; but still, should any unexpected and
pressing necessity require a sudden supply, your favouring her
with it will confer an essential obligation on me.
" That we shall ever see the Supervisors I now totally
despond ; but that some tidings of their unhappy fate may
still reach us is not, I think, altogether improbable. It has
been long believed and currently reported that an outward
bound French Indiaman descried the wreck of a vessel off
Madagascar, which conjecture led to surmise might be of the
Aurora : and on that presumption that some frigates were
ordered from Bombay to cruise round that island for further
discoverys . . .
" About the 14th of February arrived the Dolphin, a King's
frigate, at Madras. Captain Dent brought with him, we hear,
two red ribbands for General Coote and Sir John Lindsay, with
powers and instructions to the Nawab of Arcot to invest them
with the Order of the Bath. Also credentials to the Commodore
to act as his Majesty's Plenipotentiary to all the European
Powers in India. General Coote returned home the latter end
of last year by way of Bussorah . . .
" George, who is a sad idle fellow in every thing but down-
right plodding business," asks me to obtain for you the second
volume of the Code of Muhammadan Law. It may be among
some oriental manuscripts with Mrs. Ironside, who will submit
them to you. Meanwhile I will try to procure the volume in
India.
" Both George and Palk are at Patna I believe. . . My latest
letters from thence pronounce them all well, and the ladies, as
all ladies should be, in a promising way. Permit me to request
you will make my best wishes acceptable to Mrs. Palk and my
old commander General Caillaud, whom I very affectionately
remember . . ."
" Gilbert Ironside."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4to.]
[No. 136.]
[Copy of a] Par[agrap]h of a G[enera]l L[ette]r [Endorsed]
"No. 4."
1771, April 10th. — " Observing that you have appointed Mr.
Palk one of the Board of Revenue at Patna, we cannot but
express our astonishment that you should have given a post of
that consequence to a person who had behaved so unbecomingly
in the affair of the overcharge and abuses committed at the
cantonments of Burampore, and who, since his being pardoned
for that offence, had not given you proof sufficient of his integrity
to justify you in making such an appointment. We therefore
159 [No. 136.
direct that he be recalled from that station upon receipt hereof,
and employed in his proper rank in our service at Calcutta."
[1 p., 4 to. This copy may perhaps have formed an enclosure
to No. 220.]
[No. 137.]
[Robert Palk] to his Excellency the Nawab Walajah.
1771, April 17th. — I have received your letter of the 12th
October.!^' I grieve for the loss of Mr. Vansittart on your
account as well as my own, for he contemplated the promotion
of your interest together with that of the Company.
" I have often repented not staying longer in India. On
many accounts it was necessary, but you know that, seeing my
services were not so well received here as I thought they deserved,
I determined to make roona for Mr. Bourchier, whom I wished
to be more fortunate ; but surely no man could take more pains
than myself, or was ever better inclined to labor day and night
to do my duty both to the Company and yourself. I watched
over their expences and yours with the most scrupulous and
unceasing attention, and how far I succeeded must be left to
the Company and yourself to judge.
" A squadron of good ships is now sent to India, commanded
by Sir Robert Harland, a gentleman of great experience, and
who, I hope, will be able to co-operate in the most effectual
preservation of the peace in India. A regiment is also appointed
here to raise the best soldiers to be sent out as recruits : all
which will shew that neither his Majesty nor the Company are
neglectful of proper measures. I only wish that harmony
as well as great abilities may be established in the right use of
them.
" By the eldest son of Mr. Vansittart, who is obliged to seek
his fortunes abroad, I send this letter, and also a new Persian
grammar for your acceptance. A new dictionary by the same
author is soon to be published, and shall also be sent to you.
General Lawrence and Mrs. P[alk] add their good wishes to
mine for the continuance of your health and the prosperity of
the whole family."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4 to. Unsigned draft in Palk's hand.]
[No. 138.]
Henry Vansittart, jun. to Robert Palk, Esqr., at Edmund
Boehm's, Esqr., Size Lane, London.
1771, May 22nd. Madeira. — " Dear Sir, Deferring all other
intelligence for a further opportunity, I send you the account
only of my health and arrival here last Sunday, the 19th, by
a King's packet, which goes by the way of the West Indies.
As the other conveyance will most probably be the earliest, I
(1) Vide No. 113, p. 141.
No. 138.] 160
shall by that forward a more enlarged account of what has
happened.
" Behve me your dutiful nephew, Henry Vansittart."
" P.S.' — The Packet sails in a few hours."
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo. Wax seal with the Vansittart arms.]
[No. 139.]
Captain T[homas] Madge to Robert Palk, Esqr.
[Endorsed in Palk's hand] " Account of the Death of Thomas
and John Palk."
1771, June 15th. Ellore. — " Dear Sir, My last letter con-
cluded with some accounts of your two cousins, which did
honor to their family as well as themselves. It was, however,
the last opportunity allowed me to speak of them with satis-
faction unalloyed with regret, for very shortly after the despatch
of the letter dated from the unwholsome hills which terminate
our possessions in the Circars, a pestilential disorder broke out
amongst the detachment under my command, which in less
than the space of three weeks destroyed two thirds of the
Europeans that composed it, and has rendered the condition
of those that have survived it little deserving the estimation
of existence from the havoc it has made in our constitutions,
many of which are irrecoverably ruined !
" The end of the expedition into those fatal hills having been
accomplished by the successfuU effort to surprise the Pollygar
by Lieut. Palk, we retired from them the fourth day after his
again joining the main body of the detachment, congratulating
ourselves on having escaped the disorder so generally experienced
in those hills by all strangers who reside any time amongst them.
But we had not made one day's march into the open country
till it began to shew it had got footing amongst us. Your two
cousins and myself were the first officers it affected, and as
they appeared to be more so than me, I sent them down to
Rajamundry recommended to Mr. Wynch, who at that time
resided there on account of settling the revenues of the Circars,
and had a surgeon to attend him. The business of the service
would not admit of my availing myself of the assistance of a
surgeon, and obliged me to remain so long in the field that when
I got to Rajamundry my condition was pronounced too
dangerous by the doctor to admit of my proceeding any further.
Your two cousins had almost recovered their health under his
management, and were at last thought so far out of danger
as to run no risk from proceeding to Ellore, whither they were
in consequence sent with some other officers and soldiers under
charge of a surgeon. They arrived at Ellore the 18th of March
last in a very promising way for recovery ; but the day after
their arrival the disorder took an unfavorable turn, and in
spite of every possible assistance carried off the eldest almost
suddenly : the youngest survived his brother but four days
161 [No. 139.
only. The disorder had gained so much ground on me from
neglecting it that it was thought impossible for me to survive
it many days after my coming to this place, during which
time the fate of my two young friends was kept a secret from
me. They had, however, all the attendance possible from the
surgeons, who never left them for a moment whilst they could
be of service to them, but the disorder soon rose superior to
medicine and baffled all their skill. After three relapses I have
at last some hopes that I have entirely got the better of the
disorder, but have suffered so much from its malignant effects
in my constitution that I fear I shall never again recover my
former state of health. Out of twenty Europeans two only
escaped the disorder, and eight only that were infected by it
survived it !
" The concern this unfortunate event must give their mother
and every individual of their family may be partly conceived
from the universal regret it has occasioned amongst your cousins'
slightest acquaintance in India. The gentle manners of the
eldest had so much endeared him to me that I cannot refrain
from tears whenever I reflect on his untimely fate. I shall
endeavor to pay the most essential tribute to their memory
and your friendship in my power on the occasion by taking
care of their estate, which when collected together will, I hope,
amount to nearly 2,000 pags., a sum few subalterns can boast
of having honestly acquired in so short a time as the eldest
was in the service, and I think does as much honor to his
prudence as it will afford satisfaction to his friends . . .
" I have desired your nephew at Madrass to administer to
their estate, as there is no will ; to whom I shall remit the
amount of it as I receive it. And I bope you will have no
objection to the money's being paid to your attornies in India,
nor to your remitting it to their mother in Cornwall as soon as
they advise you of its having been received by them in India."
I see no prospect of early promotion, owing partly to super-
sessions from England and partly to our being saddled with
the newly created corps of engineers, who will probably claim
a share of " off-reckonings." My best respects to Mrs. Palk
and General Lawrence.
" T. Madge."
[Holograph, 6 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 140.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to [Robert Palk, Esq.].
1771, July 21st, Fort St. George. "My dear Friend, . . .
Your apprehensions for the Aurora . . . are but too justly
founded, for it is beyond a doubt that she must have been
lost. Circumstances give reason to think that she struck on
a reef of rocks off the N.E. end of Madagascar, but we have no
certain accounts . . .
No. 140.] 162
" All disputes with the Nabob's creditors have been for some
months at an end. The President and Council discharged their
duty amply. They insisted on the preference, and obtained
the payment of all" they were authorised to demand and insist
on ; for false representations had so much weight with the
Court that the Nabob had consented to the payment of | of the
charges of the Mysore war. Their orders did not authorise
demanding it. The Nabob, who has inteUigence from home
of all that passes, had learnt their sentiments, and refused to
make good his agreement. He defrayed the current charges,
and then stopped. The Council had no further demand on
him, and upon his proposing to pay 10 lacks to his creditors
they readily consented . . .
" Private advices tell us that the sentence of Wood's court-
martial is approved, and that he is restored. Had he been
restored without approval of the sentence, we should all have
acquiesced with pleasure ; but . . . -reversing an Act of Govern-
ment is a humihation to that Government : it weakens its
faculties and impairs its honor. . . . But perhaps it is intended
that the faculties of Government should be weakened. In that
case . . . where will be the authority over the military in
future? ..."
When I last wrote the Tanjore situation was precarious, as
the Rajah had palpably violated the treaty of 1762. " We were
pressed on every side to call him to account, and urged to
measures which must have involved us in endless difficulties.
An immediate attack upon Tanjore was repeatedly urged by
the Nabob and the Ambassador ; but the consequences were
too apparent for such a scheme to be rashly entered into, and it
was evident that the plan from first to last was intended pur-
posely to oblige us to assist the Marattas against Hyder — the
favourite system of the Nabob and the adopted plan of his
champion (the Ambassador). . . . The Council therefore
refused compliance, but promised to call Tanjore to account
when circumstances would admit. Everything necessary for
such an expedition has accordingly been prepared at Tricheno-
poly, and our readiness declared ; but mark the end. The
stimulators and advisers of the measure, seeing that we will
not be forced into their plan, draw in their horns, and when
the Nabob is told we are ready to undertake the expedition, his
apprehensions of the Marattas are declared, and he cannot
venture on such an enterprise at the risk of an invasion. . . .
Thus we stand at present : we have avoided the junction
with the Marattas, we have not assisted Hyder, and we continue
in peace. But Tanjore must finally be called to account. . . .
The two Marrawars and Tondeman'^' have felt the effects of his
arms, and unless he be checked, what may not be the consequence
in the end ? "
I am pleased at Suli van's return to the Directorate and at
(1) Vide No. 19, p. 26, notes 1, 2 and 4.
163 [No. 140.
Bourchier's good reception. I should be mortified if I were
moved from my post as Secretary, which I would not exchange
for anything short of a seat in Council. I have offered to
become a regular correspondent of Mr. Purling. The Ponsborne's
stay was so brief that Mr. Ley could not land, so I recommended
him to my brother Anthony in Bengal. The death of Lieut.
Palk and his brother is deeply regretted by me. Your nephew
Tom has been on a trip with the General' i' to Trichinopoly.
" You will see by your account current what has been done
in the affair you recommended to me to settle. I can only say
at present that nothing, not one syllable, has transpired, and
I have acquitals of the most ample nature should anything of
the matter be talked of hereafter. ..."
[Holograph, 12 pp.. Mo.] " W. M. Goodlad."
[No. 141.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to Robert Palk, Esq.
1771, October3rd, Cape of Good Hope. " Dear Sir,— After our
departure from Madeira the 5th of June we have chiefly met
with either contrary winds or calms after the latitude of
8 South. We saw the Canary and Cape de Verd Islands,
and crossed the Line the middle of July. About a month
afterwards we saw the coast of Brazil at Rio des Ilhos, a
little below the Bay de Todos Santos. We spoke with the
Britannia the 1st of September, who left England the 23rd
of June. We arrived in False Bay the 22nd of September,
which is about 20 miles distant overland from the Cape
Town. The old Governor died a few weeks ago, and a
deputy is appointed till advices are received from Holland.
The Lord Holland sailed from hence the 12th, and the Hampshire
the 24th. The Britannia goes to-morrow, and the Colebrooke
the next day if possible. A French ship bound to Mauritias
came in the 25th and sailed yesterday. Sir Robert Fletcher'^)
and Captain Parker'^' proceed from hence in the Britannia to
(•!' General Joseph Smith.
(2) Robert Fletcher was engaged locally as a monthly Writer in Madras in May,
1757, but was shortly afterwards commissioned as Ensign. In 1760 he was
dismissed for insubordination, but was reinstated at the instance of Eyre Coote.
Captain Fletcher served as Brigade Major in the Manila expedition of 1762, and
in the following year was transferred to Bengal as Major. In 1766 Lieut.-Colonel
Sir Robert Fletcher, who was then commanding one of the three brigades of the
Army, supported the junior officers who combined to protest against the withdrawal
of Mir Jafar's special grant of batta. He was tried by court-martial and cashiered.
Returning to England, he obtained reinstatement on the recommendation of
Lawrence and Caillaud, and ho was posted to Madras as Colonel. Succeeding
General Joseph Smith in the command of Army in 1772, he proved so obstructive
in CouncU that he was ordered to Trichinopoly by Du Pr^'s Government. He
claimed to resume his seat in Parliament and returned to England. In 1775 Sir
Robert Fletcher again arrived in Madras as Brigadier General, took command of
the Army, and supported the Majority of Council against Lord Pigot, in whose
deposition he assisted. In 1776 he sailed for the Cape on sick leave, and died on
the way at Mauritius.
(3) Probably Captain J. N. Parker, who as Ljeut.- Colonel won the battle of
Bomorey in June, 1776,
No. 11.1.] 164
Anjango, and from thence overland to Madrass for the sake of
expedition. I lodge with Captain Morris at Mr. -La Febre's,
but proceed to-morrow to False Bay. I have been used very
civilly by the captain and the rest of the passengers. Mr.
Johnson presents his comphments to you. Pray give my love
to Mrs. Palk, and remember me to Nancy and Lawrence. I am
3'our dutiful nephew,
" Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, 1 p., flscp.]
[No. 142.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, October 4th, Fort St. George. I have not heard from you
for some time, and am impatient for a reply to my letter of
the 13th October, 1770(i' by the Lapwing, as I think the fate
of the Company will depend on the turn of affairs at home
after the receipt of the advices by that ship.
By the Duke of Portland, which sailed in July last, I gave
you a history of the Tan j ore affair. (2) " We were then prepared
to call the Rajah to account, and waited only for the concur-
rence of the Nabob to set an expedition on foot. From his
behavior at that time I confess that T little expected he would
have been brought to act at all, for, baulked in his darling plan
of an immediate attack in hopes of introducing the Marattas
and thereby obliging us to join them against Hyder, he seemed
resolved to pass over the Rajah's conduct rather than call him
to account at a time which, however it might promise success,
clashed with his favourite project. But matters had gone too
far for him to recede, and it was evident to himself as well as
his champion that they could not justify inaction. . . . After
many objections on his part and repeated urging on ours he
at length resolved to commence a negotiation, and we promised
to support his demands by a force sufficient to reduce the capital,
even should those demands be refused. . . . He would not
stir one step till we totally relinquished every idea of becoming
mediators in consequence of the guarantee of 1762, and he
refused to act unless the negotiation were left wholely and
solely to himself. . . . Upon this footing, therefore, was
the expedition undertaken. The eldest son proceeded with
full powers to negociate or proceed to hostilities as occasion
might require : the second son set forward charged with supplying
the army with provisions ; and the English army, the finest
I believe that the Company ever had in the field, proceeded as
mere auxiliaries, to act hostile or otherwise as the eldest should
think eligible. How I feel when I reflect on the situation we
are reduced to ! . . .
" The last convoy and the last detachment . . . reached
the banks of the Coleroon about the 24th August, but a most
(1) Vide No. 118, p. 145. '2) yide No. 140, p. 162,
165 [No. 142.
untimely swelling of the river prevented their crossing for many
days, and it was not till the 12th September that the whole
force proceeded from Trichenopoly. Demands on ithe Rajah
had been made and refused previous to their marching from
thence. Hostilities were consequently commenced, and the
army proceeded with very little interruption to Vellam (about
6 miles N.W. from Tanjore), where they arrived on the 16th.
The place refused to surrender, and it cost four or five days to
reduce it, but the acquisition was great indeed, for (Vellour
excepted) there is not so strong a fort in the Carnatic. . . .
Our army reached Tanjour the 23rd in the morning, and it is
expected that batteries must have been opened about the 3rd
instant. In that case our accounts give us reason to think
it cannot hold out above a fortnight more. . . . Should
Tanjore fall, and fall I think it must, how glorious a stroke for
the Company, how fatal a blow to the French ! Could there be
so dangerous an enemy as one in the heart of the Carnatic ?
Could there be so noble an ally for the French ? . . ."
Notwithstanding his late defeat, Hyder still keeps the
Marathas at bay, so we have little to fear from the latter at
present. The Circars are peaceful and the Nizam quiet. We
are providing great part of the Investment from the Circars.
Sir John Lindsay's recall .has, I hope, put an end to disputes
with the Ambassador. Sir Robert Harland possesses the same
powers, but desires harmony.
" I know not what to say to you on the subject of affairs
in Bengal. . . . The King resolved many months . ago to
throw himself into the hands of the Marattas upon their offer
to seat him on the throne of Delli. He set forward accordingly,
but the rains and the uncertainty of the real intentions of the
Marattas detained him on the frontiers of the Corah'i' Province
till very lately. He is now again set forward, the Marattas
having dehvered over the city and fort of Delli to his officers.
You will allow that it is hard to judge what may be the event,
but troubles I think must ensue should the Marattas assume his
name, and make that a cloak for their depredations. . . .
" 10th October. Since writing the former part of this letter
we have news from Tanjore. The enemy made a most vigorous
sally on the 1st instant upon the covering party, but were
repulsed with great loss after continuing the attack from J past
10 in the morning till 3 in the afternoon. Our battery opened
on the 2nd, and by the 3rd at night the fire from the fort was
much reduced. Every thing promises fair . . . but they
will never lose the fort but by storm, and the issue of such an
event is always uncertain. . . ."
I do not feel satisfied with my own position, though I would
not change it for any other outside the Council. Still, I have
had over nine years' service, and see little prospect of reaching
Council in nine more. " Must I be contented to drudge on
(1) Corah (Kora) a, district of Oudh. Cf. No. 227, p. 231, note i.
No. 142.] 166
in the plain line of preferment ? I know your answer will be,
' Patience and perseverance, Billy ' ; but can you tell me no
method that will push me forward ? I have opened a corres-
pondence with Purling : he is certainly my friend. Shall I
write to Sulivan ? ... In good truth this fagging and
fagging and still fagging on with a prospect almost as distant
as the steeple of St. Paul's is not the thing. . . ."
14th October. Our latest news of Tan j ore is favourable.
" W. M. GOODLAD."
{Holograph, 10 pp., flscp.]
[No. 143.]
W[iLLiAM M[aetin] Goodlad to RoBERT Palk, Esqr.,
Spring Gardens, London.
1771, November 2nd, Fort St. George. I have only time to say
that " the Nabob has concluded peace with Tanjore. It
happened on the 27th ultimo. In a few days I will write you
further. This goes by way of Bengal. . . ."
" W. M. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4io.]
[No. 144.]
Major Tho[ma]s FitzGerald(I) to Robert Palk, Esqr.,
Bruton Street, London.
1771, November 5th, Angelville. I received your friendly letter
with much pleasure, and wish I could have met you in London
to communicate some messages from your nephew Tom. I feel
sure that Tom was better fitted for the army than the civil
service. You are more competent to judge, but I assure you he
is deserving of promotion. Captain Oats^^' begged me to thank
you for all your kindness to him. He is a first-class officer.
"Thos. FitzGerald."
" P.S. — I must beg of you to tender my best wishes and
compliments to Mrs. Palk, the good General and all your family.
My being travelling some hundred miles in this kingdom to
make a purchase, which I have at last effected if the title deeds
are made clear to me, hindered me of replying sooner to your
friendly favor. If ever I should be honored with a line from
you, please to direct to me at Mr. Finlan's, Merchant, Breda
Street, Dublin."
[Holograph, 2 pp.. Mo. Wax seal bearing arms and crest]
(1) Captain Thomas FitzGerald took part in 1764 in tlie second siege of Madura,
and in the following year defeated thfe rebellious Raja of Ongole. As Major he
served with distinction during the first Mysore war, was present at the battle of
Trinomalai in 1767, and in 1768 extricated Colonel Wood from a critical position
near Hosur. His report led to Wood's recall and trial. Major FitzGerald was then
sent with a detached force into the Baramahal in pursuit of Haidar, whom,
however, he was unable to overtake. FitzGerald left India early in 1771.
(2) Captain Thomas Oats married Ann, daughter of Thomas Felling, of Madras.
167
[No. 145.J
Captain J[ames] Rennell(I) to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, November 12th, Bengali. I fear my several letters to
you have miscarried, as I have not received any reply. I
asked your interest towards getting me placed on the Invalid
List so that I might enjoy a pension. " I might have saved
you the trouble, for by the regulations established I find
myself too rich a man to partake of the provision. I have
an epithet at my tongue's end which I could with propriety
have prefixed to it, but which I suppress out of respect to you.
If the makers of those regulations think that a man can
subsist genteely on the sum allotted, my only wish is that
their fortunes may be stinted to it.
" With respect to my health, I find myself very well during
the cold season, but the heats and damps of the other season
are too powerful for the present relaxed state of my nerves.
I could therefore wish myself at home ; but previous to a step
of that kind 'tis necessary that I should be provided with means
to subsist comfortably. Had the Fund been settled agreeable
to the scheme originally proposed, that is, £200, or £180 a
year to a Captain, I might at the end of this year have left
India and have had sufficient for a decent maintenance at
home ; but now I am left to shift for myself.
" I have entirely done my business in the field, and all that
remains to be done to compleat the General Survey of Bengali,
Bahar, our part of Orixa, and the Provinces of Allahabad and
Awd will be compleated within these four months. The sea
coast and rivers also have had a regular survey, and a surveyor
in a sloop has been all round the Bay of Bengali and described
the sea coasts and islands. It will now be my business to
compile all these surveys, and for that purpose I am now
setting down seriously for at least 13 months. The general and
particular surveys are to be drawn in about 45 or 50 large folio
maps, and will be a very compleat work when finished. Each
province is to be drawn in a separate map, and most of these
provinces are as big as the County of Norfolk, and some as big
as Yorkshire. . . .
" I have inclosed this to Mr. Barrington,'^' a very particular
friend of mine and a neighbour of yours. J. Rennell."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4fo. Endorsed in Polk's hand] " Capt.
Rennell, 12 Nov., 1771. [Received] 26 July."
'D James Rennell, of Chudleigh, Devon, entered the Navy in 1756. After
seven years' service, three of which were spent on the East India station, Rennell
was transferred to the Company in 1763, and received command of a, ship at the
age of 21. While engaged in transporting troops and stores for the siege of Madura
he surveyed the coast down to Palk Strait. In 1764 he was appointed Surveyor
General by Vansittart, and was commissioned in the Bengal Engineers, becoming
Captain in 1767 and Major in 1775. His great work, the General Survey of Benijnl,
Bihar and Orissa, begun in 1764, was completed within twelve years, and Rennell
retired on a pension in 1777. His Bengal Atlas was published two years later.
Other geographical works followed. Rennell was elected P.R.S. in 1781 : he
died in 1830, and was buried in Westminster Abbey.
(2) PitzwUliam Barriugton was a Director from 1759 to 1767.
168
[No. 146.]
W[illiam] Aldersey'I) to Rob[eb]t Palk, Esq.
1771, November 25th, Calcutta. I received your letter of the
17th December, 1770, by the hand of " Mr. Clevland," but he
has been so unwell since his arrival that I have not yet seen
him. " The adventurers to India of late have found them-
selves woefully disappointed with barren prospects." I will
do what I can, however, for any who may be recommended
by you.
" Poor Mr. Van ! What a loss to the publick, to his own
family and to society in general ! " Please refer for news to
my friends Russell'^) and Kelsall,'^) who go by this ship.
Remember me to Mrs. Palk, General Lawrence, the Bourchier
family and other Indian friends.
" W. Aldersey."
[Holograph, 2 pp., Mo.]
[No. 147.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1771, November 29th. — " Honoured Sir, — Being by this
day's observation in the latitude of 2d. 16m. South, our
passage has been very favourable from the Cape, which we left
the 11th of October. We now think we shall arrive at Bengal
in the beginning of January, but in these seas conjectures are
seldom found true. The Dutchman that is now in sight has
desired us to give him our letters. He left Point de Gol 8 days
ago, so that we shall now taste some Indian fruit. From
Batavia, to which he is now bound, he will sail directly for
Europe. I have time to write no more letters at present, but
should be obliged if you would let Mama and the rest of my
friends partake in this information. We are 122 Dutch leagues
from Ceylon.
" I am your dutiful nephew,
" Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, | p., flscp.]
[No. 148.]
Mrs. L^titia Ironside to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1771, December 2nd, Chilton Lodge, near Hungerford, Berks.
I enclose a letter to you from my husband, which reached me
last night. I am now staying with General and Mrs. Smith,**'
and forward this to your seat in Devonshire. When I hear
that you are in London I will send you my husband's Persian
books.
(1) William Aldersey, Vide No. 44, p. 69, note 1.
(2) Claud Eussell. Vide No. 12, p. 15, note 3.
(3) Thomas Kelsall. Vide No. 27, p. 45, note 2.
(*) General Richard Smith. Vide No. 83, p. 113, note 1.
169 [No. 148.
Soon after I reached England I heard that a gentleman in
India named Leslie'^' was trying to supersede Colonel Ironside.
Being unsuccessful there, he has come home to renew his efforts.
" The Directors say Mr. Leslie was recommended to them as a
jewel worth their preserving. If those gentlemen will take the
trouble to enquire Mr. Ironside['s] character of the General
officers who he has served under, I make no doubt but they will
find him equally qualified with Mr. Leslie to hold any post in
their service." I hope you will use your influence in the
matter.
" L^TiTiA Ironside."
[Holograph, 1^ p., Uo.]
[No. 149.]
Rob[er]t Palk to [William Martin Goodlad].
1771, December 2nd, Haldon House. — " My dear Billy, . . .
I am glad that you have found out a method of adjusting a
most impudent and rascally demand. What the man gave he
gave of his own free will. In my life [I never] asked him or
any other person for a douceur, and I cannot yet bring myself
to believe that this is a claim of his own setting up. I should
think, my friend, some European has done me this injury.
The sum I am very indifferent about, though I suppose it is the
first instance of the kind. To you, however, I am much obliged,
and shall be well satisfy ed with any proper mode you judge
least dishonorable. . . .
" I know nothing of the present politics of the India House,
where all seems confusion and a want of steadiness and
reflection in the Company's affairs. God grant you a
continuance of more wisdom than they seem to shew at home.
My love to all friends, and Mrs. Palk's and the General's.
" I am ever and most affectionately yours,
" RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4io.]
[No. 150.]
Edmund Veale Lane'^) to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1771, December 17th, Bombay. — I have received your letter
brought by Mr. Facey'^' on the Button, and was glad to be able
to show that gentleman hospitality and supply him with money.
He duly received his commission and rank, and lives at present
at no expense, so "it will be his own fault if he does not do
well. I hope he will, as he seems to be a very prudent young
man." I am very grateful for all your past kindness to me.
" Edmund Veale Lane."
[Holograph, 2 pp.. Mo.]
(1) Colonel Matthew Leslie. Vide No. 100, p. 130, note 4.
(2) Edmund Veale Lane was a Bombay civil servant of 1767. He died in 1780
at Bombay.
(3) Ensign George Facey, Bombay Infantry.
170
[No. 151.]
John Crighton to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, January 25th, Canton. — Having instructions from Mr.
Nicholas Morse to remit to you the sum of Spanish dollars
6,159'H at 5s. 3d. per dollar, I send a bill of exchange for
£1,616 18s. 3d. "Jno. Crighton."
[Autograph, 1 p., Mo.]
[No. 152.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to Robert Palk, Esqr. at
Edmund Boehm's, Esqr., Sice Lane, London.
1772, January 29th, Bengal. — " Dear Sir, I shall leave
Kedgree in about | an hour, and hope to arrive at Calcutta in
3 days. The Asia and Speke sail too soon for me to write from
town. My uncle and Mr. Palk are well at the Durbar. I shall
be able to add nothing more till the dispatch of the Rochford. . .
" Your dutiful nephew, Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, J p.. Mo.]
[No. 153.]
Rob[er]t Palk to [William Martin] Goodlad.
1772, February 2nd, Park Place. — " Dear Goodlad, I thank
you for your letter of the 21st July,'i' which, considering the
busy life you lead, is much longer than I had a right to expect.
It reached me at my house in Devonshire early in a morning,
and I found afterwards that it was dropped by Colonel
Campbell,'^) who passed within a mile of me, but was in too
great a hurry to call upon me.
" I rejoice that the Nabob's creditors are made easy, and hope
they are now in a fair way of being paid off. As to the measures
of the Directors, they are passed finding out, and every day they
are more and more convincing the world that the direction of
the Company's affairs by a sett of men who have views of their
own cannot be managed to advantage. They throw the blame
on their servants abroad, and accordingly the King in his
speech has strongly recommended regulations to be made;
and the situation of affairs at Bengal is soon to be laid before
them.
" No complaints are made of the management of affairs on
the Coast, but the Directors have sent Lord Clive and most of
the Bengal Counsellors a long list of informations against them,
which have been collected abroad by a Mr. Petre and supported
by the Johnstones,'^' proving or attempting to prove many
(1) Vide No. 140, /). 161.
(2) Probably Colonel Charles Campbell.
(3) John Johnstone, a member of the Bengal Council at CUve's arrival in 1765,
was suspended for accepting gifts. He resigned, and became a bitter opponent of
the Governor in England. His brother George Johnstone, M.P., likewise attacked
Clive both in the Court of Proprietors and in Parliament.
171 [No. 153.
frauds in the salt duties and revenues to the amount of 5 or
600,000/. Having never seen these charges, I cannot be more
particular, but Lord Clive and the gentlemen themselves make
very light of them, and say the Directors will be found much
more to blame than their servants. It happens, however, at
an unlucky time, mankind in general being willing to suspect
that so many great fortunes cannot be fairly acquired. Govern-
ment, I believe, are far from wishing to take the management
out of the Company's hands, but they wish to see their affairs
in a better train.
" It is now very certain that Choiseul(i) had made preparations
for beginning a war in India, to which is owing the great force
collected at the Islands, which Lord North gives us to under-
stand is to be recalled ; but till that happens we are to have a
superiority at least in men-of-war, and it is for this reason that
two ships of force are soon to sail to join Sir Robert Harland,
which, however, are to return when the marine force at the
Islands returns.
" The approval of the sentence of Wood's court martial was
certainly a severe stroke to Government, and till your letter
told me so I never conceived any sett of men could have been
so wanton in their resentments. I seldom see any of them,
and when I do they are too knowing themselves to want any
advice, and too secret to be communicative. Nothing, I
understand, is yet determined about a successor to Mr. Du Pr6,
and it is a misfortune to the service that nobody near him in
Council is thought proper for the station. Macguire,'^' it
seems, applyed, and was very properly refused. Mr. Sulivan
wanted to be a Supervisor, and on that account, I hear, they
resolve at present to send none for want of being able to find
fit men. It is not alledged that the Coast wants supervision.
" I am afraid the callfng Tan jour to account, which is become
so absolutely necessary, will be attended with risk and difficulty.
I hope Sir Robert Harland will be a better adviser.
" Having long been acquainted with the good heart of
Captain Baker,<^' let me bespeak your kindness to him, and
likewise to the two Kennaways'*' during their short stay with
(1) The Due de Choiseul, French Minister for Foreign Affairs.
(2) WilUam McGwire of the Bengal civil service, who was dismissed by the
Directors in 1761, when he was Chief at Patna.
(3' George Baker, of Tor Mohun (now called Torre, near Torquay) a seafaring
man, made his first voyage to India in 1743. In 1747 he was with Boscawen at
Pondicherry, and ten years later, as master of the Cuddalore, did good service during
the siege of Fort St. George. In 1762, when commanding the London, he was
appointed first Master Attendant of the port of Madras. On resigning this post
he went to England, and in 1771, when residing at Kenton near Haldon, made a
contract with the Directors to deliver water to the Madras Fort and shipping from
a source north of Black Town, himself receiving fees for 21 years. He returned to
India in 1772 and duly executed the work. Baker died at Madras on the 4th July,
1799. A monument to his memory was erected in Torre Church by his nephew
William Baker.
W John and Richard Kennaway, who were arriving to join the Bengal army and
civil service respectively, were sons of William Kennaway, of Exeter, a friend of
Robert Palk.
No. 153.] 172
you. I am satisfyed that you have balanced the account,
though I was much more in debt than I expected. May every
blessing attend you !
" I am, my dear friend, most affectionately yours,
" RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4to.]
[Nq. 154.]
Ant[hon]y Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, February 20th, Fort William. — FiXpresses anxiety at
not receiving any reply, excepting a brief note of 1768, to his
many letters. Feels much gratitude for past favours.
[Holograph, 2h pp.. Mo.]
[No. 155.]
Jos[ias] Du Pre to [Robert] Palk, Esqr.
1772, February 25th, Fort St. George. — " Dear Sir, Receive
my acknowledgements for your favours of the 6th August and
2nd December, 1770. I have had as good a constitution as
most men : it has been put to the tryal, and if it bears me through
this year 'tis as much as it can. There is no end to embarass-
ment. Our good friend Wallau Jau is daily carving out fresh
matter. We have had a short war with Tanjore, terminated by
a peace, I know not why. After the Nabob had irritated the
Rajah into unjustifiable acts 'twas necessary to call him to an
account, and if we had the power of doing justice, it might have
been done without firing a gun. As we had not, and consequent-
ly the Rajah could not rely on us, 'twas necessary to put it
out of his power to be dangerous, and, a war once begun, it
seemed best to get as much power by it as we could : arrange-
ments might afterwards have been made as should seem best.
We were obliged — ^for a thousand reasons which a volume
would not sufiice to explain — ^to give the lead to the Nabob.
Oh, what a falling off from the days of yore ! The Nabob
blames the General, and the General the Nabob. A peace was
made just when the breach was practicable. I will not take
upon me to say whether 'tis better so, or worse than if the place
had been taken, for that must depend on the ideas and measures
at home. I know this, that either the Rajah must be so sup-
ported in his government as that he may have a confidence in
the Company, or he must be reduced. To leave him in continual
fear of the Nabob will ensure his enmitj' whenever it may be
dangerous to us and when we shall most need his friendship.
" We have been under great apprehensions of a Maratta
invasion — at least the Nabob made us believe we were in great
danger, from which I believe that he will be able to relieve us,
finding that all his arts and efforts could not drag us into an
173 [No. 155.
offensive alliance with them, seconded by the threats of the
mighty Plenipos. I begin now to hope that we n>ay enjoy
peace at least for this year.
" I have been happy in the assistance and support of Mr.
Hastings. He has left us to take upon him the charge of affairs
in Bengal. I am afraid he will find difficulties enough if he
attempts, as he intends, a reform. He has had a good seasoning
here, and is enured to difficulty and contest. I heartily wish
him success, for he is a good and a valuable man.
" Mrs. Dupre begs to offer her good wishes to you and Mrs.
Palk. I don't know whether my pen or my eyes are failing,
but I can hardly see what I write. 'Tis late at night, but never
too late to assure you that I am, with every good wish to you
and yours, dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble
servant,
" Jos. Du Pre."
[P.S.] — " I have put the Nabob in mind of the General's
annuity. He promised to send it. 'Tis not yet come. I shall
give him another hint by and by."
[P.P.S.]— " 27th. The money is come."
[Holograph, 3 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 156.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, February 27th [Fort St. George].— I send you a bill of
exchange for £1,000 from Captain Madge, and one of £800 on
my own account. Please deal with the latter as you think
best. By the Britannia I requested your acceptance of a pipe
of old madeira, to be delivered to you by my relative Mr.
Daniell. Mr. Taswell has arrived, but I hope there is no risk
of his superseding me.
" Reyno. Adams."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4to.]
[No. 157.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, February 28th, Fort St. George.— " Honourable Sir,
Since I had the honour to write to you under date of the 18th
July last . . . the Company's order and appointment of
Mr. Hastings [as] Governor of Bengal arrived here, and that
gentleman embarked on a brigantine and sailed to that place
the 2nd of this month."
The ship Carnatic from Manila made an unsatisfactory voyage,
selling only part of her cargo, and that at the rate of a dollar
per pagoda, " which grieves the merchants' hearts very much."
Trade all over India is bad.
" The Governour and Council appointed Mr. Monkton*^) to go
(1) Tbe Hon. Edward Monckton. Vide JSfo, 118, p. 146, note 2.
No. 157.] 174
to Quedda with a few soldiers and seapoys and all the necessary
servants .to settle a trade there for the Company, and also Mr.
Desveaux'i' in the same manner to Acheen. Mr. Ardley'^'
departed this life the 9th of this month, and Mr. Charles Smith'^'
is admitted one of the members in Council ....
" Our forces was very near of taking Tanjore, but in the
mean time the King made up matters with the Nabob, paying
all the expences of the expedition, and the tribute money due
from him, and also the plunder and present that he had received
from the Maravah of Ramanadapurum. Since my last the
French received no ships, money nor any thing else from Europe,
and they are as poor as rats at present, and if it was not owing
to the capacity of Mr. Law, the Settlement of Pondichery would
have fallen long before this. The Morattas tryed all they could
to see if our Governour will give them assistance to beat Hyder,
but our Governour by his great wisdom made the Nabob settle
with the Morattas without sending them any force against
Hyder.
" A great accident happened at Trichinopoly on the 14th
instant. The expence magazine, a large stone choultry, with
about 130 barrels of powder and a very large quantity of musket
and fixed ammunition, was blown up. Stones of several ton
weight were thrown to a considerable distance. By that accident
about 200 Europeans and about two thousand black people
perished, and several of the houses, stores, etc., damaged,
which is a very great loss, and such accident was never heard
of in these parts.
" His Majesty's squadron was at Trincanamally all the winter,
and they are now at Madras, which is a great awe to all the
country Powers abroad. . . ."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 158.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1772, February 28th, Fort St. George. — I received no letter
from you during the whole of last year, and feel anxious as to
the cause of your silence. By the Colebrooke, whose packet
has just reached us, I heard from my father only. Mr. Hastings
left in January to succeed Mr. Cartier in Bengal. He promised
me, at the request of Mr. Morse, a transfer to Masulipatam
under Mr. Brooke, who is to succeed Mr. Wynch as Chief. Of
your many friends here none except Mr. Morse has taken the
least notice of me. Mr. Morse, however, has been more like a
parent than a friend. He has been seriously ill with gout,
(1) Charles Desvceux, a civil servant of 1763, was employed under Call in 1764
as an Engineer on the Madras fortifications. In 1772 he was a Junior Merchant
(2) Vide No. 52, p. 78, note 2.
(3) Vide No. 118, p. 146, note 1.
175 [No. 158.
but is now better. Henry Vansittart, who went on to Bengal
in the Britannia, is coming here on a visit to Mr. Morse. Mr.
Call was expected to succeed Mr. Du Pre as Governor, but now
it is said Mr. Cartier will do so.
" By letters from my brother I am sorry to find that the
Leaden Hall Street Gentlemen have not forgot the Cozimbazar
affair. It is a most cruel thing to refresh his memory with
what has already given him so much trouble. He is, he says,
called down from Patna, which I should imagine might have
been prevented, as Mr. Sulivan is in the Direction, and he
consequently must have some friends. He has requested of
the Gentlemen at Bengal to allow him 6 months' longer stay
... to settle his affairs. He seems to be very happy in his
present matrimonial situation. His spouse brought him a son
and heir 30th September last.
" The country is now very quiet again. The Morattoes
have been threatening an invasion in the Carnatic, but are
obliged to return to their own country to restore peace to their
own dominions ; so that Hyder laughs at them, and is in
possession of his country again. The Tanjore expedition I
am almost ashamed to mention ; but let it suffice that after
having lost a great many men, and a practicable breach made,
our army retreated back to Trichinapoly, notwithstanding I
saw under Mr. Dupre's own hand that he was resolved to reduce
that Rajah ; though it is not surprising, nor unlike every thing
else that is done.
" The following is an extract from a letter I received from
Trichinapoly, dated 16th January, 1772, [from] a gentleman in
the family of General Smith : — ' I should have set down and given
you some account of the calamity that happened here the 14th,
but till now I have been employed attending the people at
work, at first in endeavouring to save those who had any remains
of life, and afterwards getting the dead bodies removed. On
the 14th, about 4 in the afternoon, we were surprized with an
explosion in the fort, which was so violent that, though we
were upwards of a mile distant, the doors and windows of the
house, though bolted, were forced open with the shock. On
going into the Fort we found the expence magazine, a large
stone choultry, with the artillery,!^' part of the infantry barracks
and all the buildings adjoining, particularly upwards of 60
feet of a brick wall 4 feet thick and 40 in height, were blown
up and laid level with the ground. You know the wall I mean :
it is where the gentlemen sometimes play at fives (the Nabob's
garden wall), and under which in the day there is a constant
thorough-fare of people. About 40 Europeans were killed in the
spot and a great nvimber of natives, and had it happened at
any other time of the day, God knows what would have been
the consequences. The powder that took fire consisted of
about 130 barrels, with a very large quantity of musket and
(1) Note by T.P. " Not one gun remains serviceable scarce."
No. 158.] 176
fixed ammunition. Stones of several tons weight were thrown
at a great distance, many of them into the houses, and after
making their way through all, buried themselves in the earth.
Ensign McNeal was killed by one on the opposite side of the
Rock, though it is of an enormous height. The cavalry that
were picketed on the glacis were obliged to fly : part of a six
pound fell on the terrace of Warriore Hospital'i' ; in short
the poor inhabitants were under, for some time, a most
tremendous shower of stones, shells and shot, and the shock so
great that they were scarce able to stand. Many thousands
fled to the fields, and a more melancholy scene [than] that they
left behind cannot possibly be imagined. The unhappy
sufferers buried in the ruins, the heads of some appearing above
the rubbish, the arms and legs of others, and many torn to
pieces. The unhappy mothers, who on the first alarm flew to
save their children, lying dead with their infants clasped in
their arms. Spare me from going farther with this scene ; it
is too shocking to bear a recital. The General's house in the
Fort is a perfect wreck. Mr. Hay's'^' and many others suffered
much, and himself covered with rubbish. Major Braithwate,(^'
passing the main guard, was thrown out of his palankeen :
his peon, to save him, threw himself on his master, who had
just then received a bruise on the side of his head by a six
pound shot in its fall. His house is beat in, one of his servants
killed and both his horses, which must also have been his own
fate had it happened three minutes later and he had time to
get home. To mention the particulars of this affecting scene
would be endless.
" ' It is not known how the accident happened. There were
13 artillery men and some lascars drying ammunition, who
were all killed. It is, however, supposed that one shott falling
on another communicated fire to the powder in the linnen bags,
and by that means occasioned all that happened.'
" The above is a very perfect account [of the] ntielancholy
event."
" Tho. Palk."
P.S. — Please do me the favour of having two or three rings
made for me in memory of my poor cousin Tom Palk. A
newspaper or magazine of recent date will be acceptable.
[Holograph, 13j pp., 4to.]
(1' Note by T.P. " One mile distant or upwards."
(2) James Hay. Vide No. 230, p. 235, note 2.
(3) Major John Brathwaite reduced the PoUgars of Madura and Tinnevelly in
1772 and, as Lieut.-Colonel, took Mah^ from the French in 1779. When commanding
in Tanjore in 1782 he was badly defeated by Tipu, talcen prisoner and carried to
Seringapatam, whence he was released at the peace of 1784. General Brathwaite was
Commander-in-Chief, Madras, for four years from 1792, and captured Pondicherry
in 1793,
177
[No. 159.]
W[illiam] M[arttn] Goodlad to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1772, February 28th, Fort St. George. Received 20th
September. — " My dearest Friend ... To the best of my
recollection you have had a clear account of matters to
the sailing of the Stag in October last.'^' We were then in
the height of expectation in respect to Tan jour .... Peace
ensued without our accomplishing the reduction of the
capital. Various were the conjectures on this occasion, and
the motives for such a step are not to this hour ascertained.
Six hours more would have rendered the breach practicable,
and in all human probability a storm would have ensured us
the capture. But curbed by the Nabob ; acting as auxiliaries
without a will of our own, and having our operations wholely
subservient to Indostan politics, the object of the campaign
was in great measure frustrated. Vellum, it is true, was taken
and remains in our hands ; a sum of money was paid, and some
countries were relinquished by the Rajah ; but our prospects
promised more substantial benefits, and we lost the opportunity
of compleatly humbling a dangerous rival situated in the very
heart of the countries from whence we draw our support. The
Nabob, unwilhng to discover the real cause of the accommoda-
tion, would wiUingly attribute it to the General, but all
unprejudiced minds seem to hold him blameless. For my own
part I am willing to believe him so ; and if I could venture to
start an opinion of my own, I would declare the loss of Tanjour
to be solely owing to the Nabob's apprehensions of the
Marattas. Did I say solely ? I meant it not. A jealousy of
the Company, never to be eradicated, had its share in his
determination. In short, Tanjour was within his grasp, but
his apprehensions would not suffer him to seize it ; and thus
ended our expedition. It has nevertheless certainly been
attended with good effects, for the Rajah is evidently humbled,
and the possession of Vellum must be a great check upon him ;
but there is this to be said, that the Rajah will never regard
an accommodation (to which we are not Guarantees) as binding
on the Nabob. He will look for fresh troubles when the Nabob
has it in his power, and he will consequently take the first
opportunity of throwing off the yoke by affecting [sic] a junction
which it was one object of our expedition to prevent. But we
must rest satisfied. The Company are not what they were,
and never will recover themselves whilst Ministry interposes ;
and this accommodation may justly be regarded as one of the
many bad effects of the ministerial plan. The Nabob would
never have thought of laying aside the guarantee had he not
depended on support from the Crown ; and, had the guarantee
been regarded as subsisting, we had never quitted Tanjour till
the Rajah, admitting an English garrison, had put it out of
(1) Vide No. 142, p. 164,
No. 159.] 178
his power to become troublesome in future. And thus ends
my histor}' . . .
" I have been so particular before in describing to you the
caiise we had to apprehend a Maratta invasion — the warmth
of the Nabob's solicitations to join them in reducing Hyder ;
our desire rather to assist Hyder if a part must be taken ; and
the repeated entreaties of both that we would take part in their
disputes — that a repetition here is unnecessary. Matters have
lately become much more serious, but, greatly to the honor
of Du Pre, we have hitherto surmounted all difficulties. A
determined firmness has overcome every obstacle, and we
continue in peace notwithstanding every threat and every
solicitation.
" The very pressing applications from both parties, and the
apparent consequences of our acquiescing or refusing, rendered
every art of procrastination necessary. The expectation of
the Commissioners long afforded an excellent plea, and their
non-arrival gave still further time. Orders from home in
consequence of their loss were then represented as necessary
for our determination. In short, every twig was grasped at
to prevent us from sinking, but at length it became necessary
to resolve. The Marattas were on our borders, and had even
committed hostilities, though they denied the intention of so
doing. The Nabob used every argument to bring us over to
their party . . . The Minister backed his representations . . ,
but the Council still continued firm, and when matters came [to]
a cricis, declared openly that they would defend the Nabob's
possessions to the utmost, but would join neither party. The
Nabob and Minister both found they had struggled in vain ;
and as the Marattas had been fed with hopes of our assistance,
it became necessary to recompense them for their disappoint-
ment. They are gone off, and we are promised peace for a
time. The causes which have produced this may easily be
guessed at, though they cannot with any certainty be declared.
" You will see from the foregoing that our new Minister has
not been idle. He long remained silent, and we had hopes
that he would have given us little interruption ; but he at
length assumed his character, and promised to be more active
than his predecessor. Blustering was not wanting, but it is
no match for calmness. After attempting to speak daggers,
he sheathed his weapon, and (to the best of my judgement) we
remain triumphant. It is suspected that during the height of
our disputes he was checked from home. From the most
hauty stile he descended at once to (what I call) the lowest
submission, and has since been perfectly calm . . .
" I have frequently told you how much the Nabob's conduct
was altered since the arrival of the Plenipos . . . You must
have beared of the Agreement between the Company and the
agents for the creditors in England. He refuses absolutely
to acquiesce, hints that he will pay each seperately, but will
179 [No. 159.
make no declaration that he will really discharge his debt to the
Company . . . Many of the creditors have declared their
resolution to abide by the Agreement, and have appointed a
committee to transact their affairs, at the head of which I am.
The Council promise us every assistance in their power . . .
" Hastings left us the 2ncl instant, much regretted, for he is
a very valuable man both in his public and private character.
Unless my letters from Bengal tell me wrong, he will have much
on his hands, for matters there are represented to be in a state
which will require the exertion of all his abilities to reform them.
Ardley died the 9th instant. Pyne^) and Charles Smith are in
Council. When shall I be there ? Alas ! the reflection gives
me pain . . ."
[Holograph, 8| pp., Mo.] " W. M. Goodlad."
[No. 160.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
N.Y. [1772], February 29th, 2 a.m. [Fort St. George.]—" I
have wrote you so particular a letter by the packet per Lord
North that I request of you to use your utmost endeavours to
procure it. Pray send word to my mother that I am in health
and spirits. May every blessing attend you ! Adieu.
"W. M. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo.]
[No. 161.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, March 20th, Fort St. George. Received 20th Sept.—
Since I wrote by the Lord North last month,*^' nothing special
has occiured. The Nawab totally disregards the Agreement
made between his creditors and the Company, and is resolved
to suit his own convenience in regard to payments.
" Whatever the Minister may be about in private, he continues
silent, and all correspondence is dropped ; but there is no
cordiality subsisting between us, and indeed if I had time to
describe to you in how many instances he descends beneath
the dignity of his character, you would not be surprised at it.
We are free from apprehensions as to the Marattas for the
present . . . Hastings is arrived in Bengal, but we have yet
no accounts of his having taken possession of the Government,
or of the situation in which he has found affairs there . . .
" I enclose you a bill on my mother for £200, interest to
August, 1772, on the money I am so much obliged to you for.
Accept it with my best thanks, my dearest friend, and be
assured there does not exist a more grateful heart than in the
<1) George Pyne, a civil servant of 1753,
(2) Vidf No. 159, p. 177,
No. 161.] 180
the breast of your ever obliged and affectionate friend and
servant,
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4fo.J " W. M. Goodlad."
[Enclosure]~FiTst of Exchange for £200 at 90 days to Mrs.
Goodlad, King's Road, Gray's Inn, London, in favour of Robert
Palk, Esqr.
[1 p., Uo.]
[No. 162.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to Robert Palk, Esqr., at Edmund
Boehm's, Esqr., Sice Lane, London.
1772, April 2nd, Fort St. George.—" Dear Sir, I landed in
good health at Calcutta the 31st of January, and in consequence
of several pressing letters I received from Mr. Morse, left it in
order to proceed to Madras in the Lord Holland in the latter
end of February. I had before my departure been introduced
to Mr. Hastings, who has invited me to live with him when I
return. After a passage of 25 days we arrived in Madras road,
and I had a happy meeting with Mr. and Mrs. Morse the next
day. The time of my stay here is not yet settled, but, however,
I shall find employment in the study of the Persian language
and in the instructions of my grand father. The Nabob, having
heard from Mr. Du Pre of the letter you have sent by me, has
already given me an invitation to come and see him, and when
Mr. Morse thinks proper he will carry me there. I have
received many civilities here, but I cannot say that I am so
fond of this place as Bengal. Mr. Alexander!^* and Mr. Floyer,<2>
who are going in the Lord Holland to Europe, have treated me
in the most obliging manner during my stay in that ship, and
to them I chiefly am indebted for my passage.
" Remember me to Mr. Tripe,'^' and give my duty to Mrs.
Palk, and love to Nancy and Lawrence. Your dutiful nephew,
" Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4io.]
[No. 163.]
J[ohn] M[axwell] Stone to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, April 4th, Fort St. George. — I have lately received your
letter of the 2nd April, 1771, and now reply by the Lord Holland.
Alexander and Floyer go in her, the former " to enjoy his
fortune at ease," the latter to procure reinstatement on the
Bengal establishment.
" Our situation for these two or three years past has indeed
been very distressing and perplexing, and my wonder can only
be equalled by the satisfaction I feel to find that we have got
<1) James Alexander. Vide No. 65, p. 92, note 6.
(2) Charles Floyer. Vide No. 84, p. 113, note 6.
(3) Nicholas Tripe, of Aahburton, who married Grace Palk, niece of (Jovemor PaUc,
181 [No. 163.
thus far in safety. Great merit is certainly due to Mr. Du Pr^,
who, notwithstanding all the embarrassments and difficulties
with which he was surrounded, notwithstanding the disagreeable
and vexatious altercations he has been obliged to maintain
with the Nabob, His Majesty's Ministers and General Coote,
could persevere with such steadiness and resolution in the line
he first laid down."
At the end of last December we learned with gratification
that the conduct of the Governor and Council in regard to the
Nawab, the Marattas, Hyder Ali and the King's Minister was
approved at home, though nothing was said about Coote.
" Sir John Lindsay did not cease plaguing us till the end of
July last, when it may be supposed he had got as much as he
could expect, and the news arrived of Sir Robert Harland's
being appointed to succeed him with plenipotentiary powers.
The Squadron arrived here the beginning of September, and
Sir Robert Harland immediately upon his landing laid before
the Board his plenipotentiary powers and instructions, the sum
and substance of which were ; — to see that the Treaty of Paris
of 1763 had not been infringed, and to receive from the Nabob
any complaints he might have to make, and transmit them to
the Ministry. These powers, which we understand were the
same with Sir John Lindsay's, could not, you will say, authorize
the steps taken by the Minister. However, by a very extra-
ordinary construction put on the 11th article of the Treaty of
Paris, they were used to that end. The Nabob, by the inter-
pretation given to that article, is deemed an ally of the Crown '
of Great Britain, and as such has a right to the support and
protection of the Crown. In virtue of which the Minister took
upon him to urge the Government to such measures as the
Nabob should dictate. You, I dare say, will be surprized at
this forced construction put upon that article, and the arguments
used in consequence, as you are well acquainted with the
cause of that, article being inserted, which was evidently with
no other intent than to put it out of the power of the French
to set up Chunda Saib's son'" or any other pretender to the
Phousdary*^) of the Carnatic in opposition to the Nabob. If the
interpretation now given to the article be admitted, the Nabob
is equally an ally of the Crown of France as of Great Britain,
as they are both equally bound by the Treaty to acknowledge
him for Nabob ; and it is incumbent on England and France
to support him against all the world, even against the Mogul
and the Soubah, to whom, by the custom of the Empire and his
own acknowledgment, he is subject. You will, I am certain,
see the impropriety, I may say the absurdity, of this doctrine.
But what will you say when I tell you that the Directors have
adopted the hke notions, which has been the cause of much
embarrassment to us in our transactions with the Nabob ;
(1) Raza Khan, commonly called Raja Sahib.
(2) Phousdary, from Pers. faujdari, governorship.
No. 163.] 182
which must in the end prove very detrimental to the Company's
affairs ; and I may venture to pronounce, without pretending
to the gift of prophecying, that it is impossible matters can long
remain in the present situation. The Company must adopt
some uniform plan and system in their connexions with the
Nabob, or give him up entirely. The defence and protection
of the Carnatic rests on them, while the resources are in the
Nabob's hands, who refuses to furnish the means necessary
for that purpose, and counteracts and opposes every measure
of this Government. There was a time when the arguments
which worked upon his hopes or fears had some weight, but he
now hears everything with the utmost seeming indifference.
He no longer looks up to the Company as his friends and
supporters, but places his whole confidence in the aid of the
Crown. His drift seems to be to play off one against the other,
by which means he hopes to free himself from any dependance
on the Company ; and when he has gained sufficient strength
he flatters himself with the idea of entire independancy. These,
my dear Sir, are my thoughts of the consequences of the present
system, or rather want of system with the Nabob, which I
communicate in confidence to you ; and I can assure you they
frequently give me much uneasiness, as I have little pro[s]pect
of being able to retire from a scene which promises nothing but
perplexity and embarrassment ; and more especially when I see
the Company, whose interest I shall ever make it my study to
promote, threatened with such imminent danger.
" From the open and candid manner with which Sir Robert
Harland exposed to us his powers, we hoped we should not have
been again subjected to the like vexatious correspondence we
had been engaged in for a twelvemonth before. But we were
only led to hope what we wished. A Minister from the Crown
without employment must be without consequence. He must
render himself usefull to the Nabob in one shape or other, or
the end of his mission is not answered. Sir Robert Harland,
rather than remain idle, renewed the same subjects which had
been so fully discussed with his predecessor ; but he ventured
further. He threatened, when he found we would not adopt
the Nabob's system of joining the Morattas, to engage the
Crown in an alliance with them, and desired to know whether
the Company would in that case assist them with their troops.
He was told plainly, but in respectful terms, that they would not.
About this time the advices by the Lord Holland arrived, and
which it is believed brought orders to Sir Robert Harland from
the Ministry respecting the powers he was vested with, as he
wrote a letter a few days after very different in style and
sentiment from those we had before received from him, and
which might be almost construed a disavowal of his former
conduct. He, however, still preserves a very close intimacy
with the Nabob, who is no doubt led to expect powerfuU support
from him. This is our situation with regard to the Nabob, and
183 [No. 168.
which must continue untill the extraordinary powers sent out
are withdrawn, and the Nabob can be again brought to look
for no other support from England but through the means of
the Company. But I much fear such a change will not soon
take place. It will be no easy matter to prevail on the Ministry
to relinquish the footing they have gained in India, and the
Nabob will give them all the encouragement in his power to
persevere in the plan they have adopted untill his views are
compleated.
" The arrival of the Lord Holland gave the Governor and
Council an opportunity of acting as they had long wished to
do with regard to the Morattas and Hyder Ally. The latter
had not ceased to solicit our assistance, and the Morattas had
constantly demanded it with threats, in which they were
supported by the Nabob and his Majesty's Minister. The
Board were fully determined not to assist the Morattas, from
the dangerous consequences to be apprehended from an increase
of their power ; and the Nabob could never be prevailed on
to take any measures in favor of Hyder Ally. Thus circum-
stanced, the Governor and Council thought it expedient to
return no decisive answer to either, and to inform both that we
should be guided by the orders we might receive from England.
Indeed we had so long made use of evasions that it was impossible
they could have availed us any longer ; and we must have been
obhged to have declared openly in favor of the one or the other,
or our resolution to remain neuter. The arrival of the orders
by the Lord Holland put us out of suspence, and we no longer
hesitated to declare plainly both to the Morattas and Hyder
Ally that we were not empowered to afford assistance to either,
when the Nabob found that neither his solicitations, the threats
of the Minister, nor the fear of a Moratta invasion could induce
the Governor and Council to adopt his favourite plan of joining
the Morattas, he then, and not till then, set earnestly to work
to prevent their ravaging the Province. They had already
advanced to the borders, and some parties had actually entered
the country and plundered some villages. The negotiation
was begun and concluded in a few days, and the Morattas
retired into the Balaghaut'^' on the other side of the hills, and
were by the last accounts near Syringapatam. We know not
on what terms they consented to withdraw, as the Nabob
industriously conceals from us every transaction ; but we have
heard that he only paid them the four lacks of rupees which
remained due of the agreement made in 1760. The ease with
which the Nabob settled this business, and that too at a season
of the year the most favourable for the Morattas to lay waste
the coimtry, confirmed the suspicions we had long entertained
that the Morattas had been encouraged, if not invited, by the
Nabob himself to threaten this Province in order to frighten or
(1) Balaghat, the country above the ghauts, the Mysore plateau.
No. 163.] 184
compell us into an alliance with them. And indeed a circum-
stance came to light in the course of the correspondence which
afforded further cause for our suspicions. It appeared that the
Nabob had obtained from the Morattas a promise of the cession
of the Barhamall*!' country and of the fort of Syringapatam
in case he could prevail on us to assist in reducing Hyder Ally ;
and although he could not be ignorant how Kttle dependance
was to be placed on such a promise from the Morattas, it had
certainly great weight with him in his political system. Not-
withstanding the Morattas had advanced to the very
borders of the Province, and we received daily accounts of
villages plundered by them, nothing we could urge could
prevail on the Nabob to consent that the army, which was
returned from before Tanjour to Trichinopoly, should move
to some central position to protect the country. We could
take no measures without his concurrence, because we had
neither the means of paying or subsisting the troops in the
field, and because, as the country is the Nabob's, we can
attempt nothing for its security without his consent, as we
should make ourselves responsible for all consequences, which,
considering the present temper of the times, might be ha-
zarding too much.
" I have thus, my dear Sir, given you a faint, but I will venture
to say a true, picture of our situation. I need not express my
wish that this letter be only communicated to my friend Mr.
Bourchier, as it would be improper in me to offer my opinion
unasked to others when my situation does not require it."
I offer you my condolences on the loss of Mr. Vansittart in
the Aurora. I had hopes that Harry Griffiths'^* would have
been admitted to the service this year. He is a fine sensible
boy, and works in my office without pay. I have urged Mr.
Du Pre to exert his influence, but he does not care to ask for
favours. Mr. Canning'^' is desirous of getting Harry Griffiths'
brother William to India as a cadet. Your kindness to the
Griffiths' father makes me hope for your aid.
" Mrs. Stone having for several years labored under a very
bad state of health, I have at last been under the necessity of
consenting to her proceeding to England. She went the last
season by the way of China, and I have had the satisfaction to
learn from her that the voyage has given so favourable [a]
turn to her constitution that she is perfectly recovered, and
would have returned to me without going to England but on
account of my dear little girl, whom it was necessary to send
home. I need not say how very painfull this separation must
be to me, but I have endeavoured to support myself under it
with all the patience and resolution I am master of, and with
(1) The Baramahal was the territory situated S.E. of the present province of
Mysore between the first and second ranges of the Eastern Gliauts. It extended
roughly from the Palar to the Oauvery, and tooli its name from the circumstance of
its division Into twelve districts.
(2) Vide No. 88, p. 117, note 1.
(3) The Bev. Bichard Canning. Cf. No. 50, p. 76.
185 , [No. 163.
the reflexion of my having acted for her's and the child's
good . . ."
[Holograph, 14 pp., Mo.] " J. M. Stone."
[No. 164.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, April 4th, Fort St. George. — I was glad to receive
your letter of the 14th April, 1771, brought by Mr. Vansittart.
" It gives me much pleasure to find that the wine (a poor token
of my gratitude) proved agreeable, which will induce me to
repeat it when a favorable opportunity offers, unless any thing
else might appear more acceptable." I have remitted to you
Pags. 2,000, which I beg you to lend on mortgage or otherwise
invest for me.
" Reyno. Adams."
[Holograph, 2f pp.. Mo.]
[No. 165.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, April 4th, Madras. — I was glad to receive your letter
of the 2nd April, 1771,<^) brought by Henry Vansittart. The
Plenipotentiary remains quiet, having probably received
instructions to that effect, but the Company cannot recover its
influence until the powers of the Crown are withdrawn. We
have no decision yet regarding the dispute with Coote. The
question of my supersession by Mr. Stewart(^) has been settled
in my favour, and I am grateful to you for your help in the
matter. I shall do what I can to make Harry Vansittart's stay
here agreeable, but I have been so overwhelmed with work that
I have not yet been able to see him. I am writing to Mr. Sulivan,
to whom I owe my first appointment to the Company's service.
I would address Mr. Bourchier if I could find the time.
" W. M. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 6 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 166.]
Robert Palk to [William Martin Goodlad].
1772, April 7th, Park Place.— " My dear Billy . . The
Directors were well pleased with the last accounts from Madras.
The success against Tanjour will not raise the Stock, but if we
fail it will have a confounded tumble. Sir Robert Harland
possibly may have the same powers with Lindsay, but his
instructions must be very different. Whatever they are, the
House of Commons will desire to see them, and next Tuesday
is appointed for an enquiry into the state of India. On that
ihotion Lord Clive spoke for two hours in vindication of his own
(1) Vide No. 134, p. 157.
(2) Cf. No. 119, p. 149.
No. 166.] 186
conduct. He was followed by Rumbold, Carnac and Coote.
The last said that three times the number of troops now
employed in India might be paid with the same money, but
that tiae contractors and the canaille spent all the money. All
which every officer who ever commanded in India is ready
flatly to contradict."
I have done all in my power to bring your merit to notice
in Leadenhall Street. Sir George Colebrooke,(i' to whom I
showed your last letter, will be pleased to hear from you. I
shall also speak to Purlingi^) ; " but they are all such ignoramus's
that they understand httle or nothing of the affairs abroad.
They are only anxious for appearances and carrying on their
own jobbs. Sulivan still is a candidate for the succession at
Madras, but there seem to me many difficulties in his way."
"RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, 2| pp.. Mo.]
[No. 167.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, April 13th, Madras. — I send this by way of Anjengo
in hopes of catching the Bombay ships. The Lapwing arrived
here yesterday, but the advices by her give us little information.
" We shall never be restored to our former footing so long as a
Minister from the Crown is continued in these parts. The little
confidence which remained between His Excellency and the
Board must be daily lessened as we find his character open
more and more. It seems that the Lapwing was freighted with
complaints to the Crown, and I suppose the subsequent dis-
patches have been of the same nature. Is it possible to live
on terms with the man who is known to endeavour all in his
power to thus stab in the dark ? He makes no ceremony of
telling the King that the Company's servants encrease his
expences at pleasure. By Jove! I — I am very angry, for I
detest every thing so ungenerous."
The Court of Directors are said to be displeased at the tone
of recent letters from here. If any changes take place in
consequence. Stone will probably become a member of the
Board. In that case I shall try for the Military Secretaryship,
and slave until I secure preferment. Purling seems to be my
friend, and I hope to win over Sulivan. We continue at peace,
but an expedition against the Marawars is talked of. On the
whole the prospects on the Coast are promising.
" W. M. GOOBLAD."
[Holograph, 4^p., 4to.]
(1) Sir George Colebrooke, Bt., was Chairman of the Court of Directors ia 1769,
1770 and 1772.
(2) John Purling. Vide No. 98, p. 129, note 1.
187
[No. 168.]
Colonel Gilbert Ironside to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, April 13th, Fort William. — I am very grateful for
your civility to Mrs. Ironside and her brother. I have just seen
Mr. Palk and his wife. Although he incurred the Company's
displeasure some years ago, I think he might have been treated
more leniently in consideration of his good service at Patna.
" From Mr. Hastings, however, I am persuaded he will meet
with those instances of esteem and regard he can wish for from
the Governour and the friend. George is now next to Council,
and / am afraid will soon be called to the Board.
" There was a talk not long since of Mr. Hastings' intentions
to desire my assistance to promote the public cause, and in
consequence to remain at the Presidency with him. Whether
he perseveres in his resolution I know not. His accession to
the Chair was on the 13th instant. A few days therefore will
determine whether I am to continue a devious campaign life,
or to repose under the olive shade 'till my rank entitles me to a
brigade. The latter I think most probable, for though
experience and disappointments have rendered me rather
diffident of cherishing too fond and sanguine expectations from
the smiles of power, yet I have the firmest reliance on the
obligations of friendship . . .
" From the library of the Nawab Mahmud Riza Chan'^' I had
the good fortune to meet with a copy of the digests or pandects
of the Arabian Canon and Civil Laws. One volume is entirely
transcribed, and my Arabic writers are advanced far in copying
the remaining one with the Comment. I thought it preferable
to procure both rather than the second volume only that you
wrote for, least the first of yours should be imperfect. They will
be ready to dispatch by the packet of September.
" In pohtical matters here there is nothing very remarkable.
The King, in the hands of the Morrattas, gained a considerable
victory over the Rohellas in the course of the month of February,
and afterwards besieged a strong fortress in the same country
called Pattagur,<^> where he took an immense booty. Shujah
Dowlah, against whom the Moratta[s], from former resentments,
have long vowed vengeance, is at present with his forces on
the Rohellah frontier, and one of our brigades at the Caram-
nassah'^) in readiness to march to his assistance. But it is
now the general opinion that they will not trouble him this
season, for they entertain a very formidable idea of our force
united to the Vizier's, and with reason.
(1) Nawab Muhammad Kaza Khan was Naib Diwan, or ftnauce minister, of Bengal
until the Company itself assumed the Diwani in accordance with the grant procured
by Clive.
(2) Patthagarh, a fort now in ruins in the United Provinces. The place was sacked
by the Marathas in 1772.
(3) The river Caramnassah (Karamnasa), a tributary of the Ganges, formed the
boimdary between the Company's Bengal territories and the country of the Nawab
Vizier of Oudh.
No. 168.] 188
" All apprehensions of a French invasion may be laid aside,
I think, for this monsoon. Last year, indeed, they might have
effected much from the supineness, neghgence and weakness
of our administration ; but neither in present nor in future
can they have any great probability of succeeding, for we have
now a very large force near Calcutta, and the fortifications on
the river and at Fort William are advanced beyond an appre-
hension of insult. Another year I hope completes them ..."
" Gilbert Ironside."
[Holograph, 3| pp., flscp.]
[No. 169.]
Lau[rence] Sulivan to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place,
St. James's.
1772, May 27th, Queen Square. — " Dear Sir, I am now to
give you a melancholly state of those affairs that in the decline
of life have compleated my ruin.
" When Mr. Waller's bond is recovered we have sufficient
(within one hundred pounds either way) to discharge every
debt (your own excepted), and upon the close will stand
thus:" . . To you I owe 10,490Z. 2s. lid., and to Henry
Vansittart's estate 7,325/. 5s. 2rf. ; total 17,815Z. 8s. Id.
" For these sums it's at present out of my power to offer
more than my bonds, my estate being (between ourselves)
mortgaged to Mr. Dunning'^' . . . My India qualification is
also mortgaged. I have nothing left. All that I can at present
secure to you or the familly is " the sums due from Mr. Maclean,'^'
Lord Shelburne, Lord Verney and Mrs. Forest, aggregating
9,070Z. " If these are accepted as transferrs, my debt of 17,815?
8s. Id. will be reduced to 8,745i. 8s. Id. ; or my bonds may be
taken for the whole sums, and these made over as part payment
when received. I have not a shilling more to appropriate.
We live now principally upon my son's income, the good youth
hardly allowing himself lOOZ. a year. My wife (who merits a
better fate) suspecting and dreading (though not knowing) my
circumstances, has often pressed me to part with our two
houses [? horses], coach and some servants, which indeed I had
agreed to, but Mr. Motteux'^' soon convinced me that such a step
would defeat all my prospects both as to India or even the India
House, giving my enemys the very proof they were in diligent
search of for to destroy me.
" I trust, however, that nobody shall suffer, as my deter-
mination is fixed to go to India, and hope and believe there
will be no difficulty ; but my desperate situation and the
contents of this letter must be lodged in your own breast, for
in its extent this is known to no soul living but your self.
" As I have experienced your affection, I build upon your
(11 John Dunning. Vide No. 105, p. 135, note 4.
(2) Colonel Lauchlan Macleane.
(3) John Motteux. Vide No. 97, p. 127, note 1.
189 [No. 169.
friendship to settle for me with Mr. Van's executors before you
leave town, and indeed I ask and entreat it as the greatest
favour; for my feelings are such and my heart, thank God, so
pure, that disagreeable altercations with Mr. Boehm'^' or even
the most distant insinuation writ [?] would hurt me beyond
expression ; for though I will never complain, I must do
justice to Mr. Boehm's character as an honest man. Yet I
cannot forget him (and I have a witness to remember) as the
cause of my present extensive misery. I will not doubt but
the familly have some regard for me, and good policy must lead
them to every act of consistent tenderness, for abroad I may be
of essential service, and even at home (should it be wanted) a
usefuU friend, and I think my conduct has ever been such as
to claim their confidence . . .
" As the ballance of my account differs from the amount in
the books kept by Mr. Motteux, ... I shall be ready to meet
Mr. Boehm at Mr. Motteux's to explain the whole to him . . "
" Lau. Sulivan."
[P.S.J — "I look upon the whole, that Mr. Maclean owes to
be very secure, for (not to be mentioned) Sir George Colebrooke
is pledged to send him to India to some very lucrative post."*^'
[Holograph, 2 pp., flscp. Wax seal hearing arms.]
[No. 170.]
L[aukence] Sulivan to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr., Park Place.
N.D. [1772, dr. end of May]. Wednesday. — " Since my letter
to you was closed I have received from Mr. Motteux the
accompany[ing] note sent him by Mr. Boehm. It is Mr.
Motteux's desire to do no more than to deliver Mr. Boehm
copys of my account and Mr. Vansittart's, deceased, as they
stand upon the books ; or the books themselves for Mr. Boehm
to take copys ; or he will meet Mr. Boehm and me (if I ask it),
and follow our directions. I have given Mr. Motteux no answer,
nor will he be in town untill next week.
" I can have no objection to settle my account, and leave out
the unliquidated claims, and there are but two ways of
adjusting : — the one as stated to you in my letter, where I
consider my self as answerable for the whole deficiency, to you
for your whole debt, and to Van's estate for his ballance; or,
to you for my half of your debt, and Van's estate answerable
to you for the other moiety. This no doubt you may claim,
which puts my debt to Va[n] at upwards of £12,000, and to
(1) Edmund Boehm. Vide No. 97, p. 127, note 2.
(2) Lauchlan Macleane entered the Bengal Army as Captain in 1758, and retired
as Major in 1766. Re-appointed by the influence of Sir George Colebrooke, who
was Chairman of the Court of Directors in 1772, Macleane returned to India with
the rank of Lt. Colonel and the appointment of Commissary General, Bengal. In
1775 he was selected to act as Hastings's agent in England. He watched the
Governor General's interest in ParUament, negotiated with the King's Ministers
and the Court of Directors, and took part in the conference at Haldon House which
led to his tender of Hastings's conditional resignation. Colonel Macleane, who
also represented Nawab Walajah in England, died m 1778.
No, 170.] 190
you 5,240Z. It will be kind (and I trust safe) if you suffer
me to be your debtor for the whole, when the executors will
make no great difficulty in taking my bond for the 8,000 and
odd pounds. They may for 12,000Z.
" My dear friend, the hour grows critical to me and those
who depend upon payment. Rash and imprudent conduct may
be destructive. For this reason I dread your going out of town.
For God's sake fix matters for me before you go. It shall be
the last trouble I will give you. My obligations to you are great :
my heart will ever gratefully feel them, and I pledge myself
you shall not suffer by me. The Supravision I think will take
place in a fortnight or three weeks, which will end all my
difficulty s.
" I am, dear Sir, your faithfull and most affectionate
"L. SULIVAN."
[Holograph, l^ p-, 4to. Wax seal with arms.]
[No. 171.]
Lau[rence] Sulivan to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place.
N.D. [1772, dr. end of May]. Queen Square. — " All in my
power is to thank you, and, if Providence favours me, you shall
not suffer. I will meet Mr. Boehm at Mr. Motteux's at
11 o'clock next Wednesday.
" Mr. Ley has desired to continue with Captain Hough, and
Hough and Mr. Lane'^' are as desirous to keep him." Should
he wish a transfer to another ship I will do what I can, but it
will be best for him to remain in the Ponsborne.
" Lau. Sulivan."
[Holograph, | p., ito. Wax seal with arms, defaced.]
[No. 172.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1772, August 28th, Bengal. — " Dear Sir, Mr. Palk sent me
your letter from Calcutta to Cossimbuzar, where, after the fatal
accident that carried off Mr. Morse, I was sent by my friends,
and became one of Mr. Hastings's family. From thence I set
off a week ago for Patna, and am now advanced on my way as
far as Raja Mall.
" As I shall never -be settled till I see miy uncle, I long much
for the time, as I do not doubt, from the affection he expresses,
he will afford me all manner of assistance, and particularly in
my study of the Persian language ..."
" Henry Vansittart."
" September 9th. I arrived yesterday at Monghyr, which is
situated at the distance of more than 300 miles from Calcutta.
Mr. Finch, '^' who was my shipmate, is now an ensign upon the
Coast, and at present is stationed at Trichinopoly . . ."
[Holograph, 2 pp.. Mo.]
(1) Thomas Ley was third offlcer of the Ponsborne, under Captain Samuel
Hough, and Thomas Lane was managing owner of the sliip.
(?) Snsign James Finch.
191
[No. 173.]
Ensign J. Snelling to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, September 2nd, Jillmore.'^' — My brother forwarded
to me your kind letter of condolence on the loss of my mother.
Thanks to you, I am now able to support myself. I saw Mr.
Morse shortly before his death. Both he and Mr. Goodlad
showed me kindness. I was unfortunate in not seeing service
either at Tanjore or in the Marawa expedition. When my
battalion left Palamcotah for Madras I was transferred to this
place, which is near Ganjam.
[Holograph, 2 pp.. Mo.] " J. Snelling."
[No. 174.]
Warren Hastings to Lau[rence] Sulivan, Esqr.
17.72, September 7th, Cossimbuzar. — " Dear Sir, I hope you
will not expect a long letter from me when you see the name of
the place which I write from. I will be more communicative by
the Lapwing, which perhaps will arrive as soon as this ship,
unless I hear before that you are certainly on your way to Bengal
as a Commissioner, or to Fort St. George as a Governor, for
report says you must be one.
" I have made use of the information and talents of Nund
Comar. I have obtained a reward for him equal to his future
services, be they ever so important, and far beyond his past
deserts. And I have avoided to give him such trust or authority
as he could turn to the Company's detriment. This was the
proposition laid down for me in the letter of the Secret Committee
and enjoined in yours. I beg you will support and confirm your
own work. I am happy that you recommended it. It was the
only measure which could have effectually broken the power
of Mahmud Rizza Cawn*^'.
" Munny Begum, the widow of Meer Jaffier, is appointed
Superintendant of the Nabob's household, an irreconcileable
enemy to Mahmud Rizza Cawn.
" Rajah Goordass, the son of Nund Comar is made Dewan of
the Nizamut.
" The Nabob's stipend is reduced from 32 lacks to 16. This
ought to have been done 7 months ago.
" The settlement of the revenue of Bengal has been begun
and compleated as far as 60 lacks for a term of 5 years upon
the plan of which you were informed in a former letter. The
remainder will take up some months more. The Company
will not lose nor the inhabitants suffer from our arrangements,
although the depopulation by the late famine and mortality
exceeds all belief.
(1) Jelmur in Ganjam, where Narayan Deo was defeated by Colonel Peach
in 1768. Cf. No. 42, p. 68, note 2.
(2) Muhammad Baza Khan {vide No. 168, p. 187, note 1) was arrested in
August, 1772, on charges of peculation. He was eventually acquitted.
No. 174.] 192
" The Collectors still remain, but their power is much reduced.
" It has been resolved, as the most effectual means of con-
ducting the Dewaunee on the system ordered by the Company,
to transfer the collections to Calcutta, which will become the
seat of the Dewaunee and the capital of the Province.
" Regulations have been framed for the administration of
justice, which will do us little credit with the learned in the law,
but they will prove of service in a land which to this day exists
without any Court or forms of Justice.
" The principles of all our measures have been to establish
the new system which the Directors have adopted ; to
break the influence of the former administration ; to avail
ourselves of the present minority to establish the line of the
Company's power, and habituate the people and the Nabob to
their sovereignty, and to make it acceptable to the former by
an attention to their ease and by a mild and equal plan of
government.
" Ibeg of you to read such of the proceedings of this Committee
as have been communicated to the Board. You will find them,
I suppose, in the Consultations.
'' Much has been said against Nund-Comar, whose real
character I have endeavored to delineate.
" The reasons assigned for dividing the offices of the
Nizamut'i' and giving the chief administration to a woman
deserve your attention. The preface to our judicial establish-
ment will also shew the state of the Courts and offices of Justice
before in being, and fully evince the necessity as well as the
propriety of those which we have adopted.
" The examination of Mahmud Rizza Cawn still remains in
suspense. I am inclined to leave it to the Supervisors, for I
doubt the sufficiency of my own powers to bear me through it.
" The other enquiries referred to me will only serve to shew
the impotency of the authority which constitutionally rests
with the President. You empower me to punish, but you give
me no means to call the offenders to account. But I am going
into too wide a field for the time allowed me to finish this letter.
This may be the subject of a longer.
" We are yet happily at peace, but great pains have been
taken by the Vizier'^' to draw us into a war, which I shall use
all my efforts to avoid. In this I hope to be heartily supported
by my fellow laborers. The Marrattas have retired, as was
foreseen, from the Rohella country, and are engaged in a war
with the Jauts*^) with little success. They will probably return
after the rains. The Vizier has demanded the presence of our
forces, which we have promised, with a declaration that they
shall be employed only in the defence of his dominions, but not
move an inch beyond them unless the Marattas begin hostilities
(1) Nizdmai, administration.
(2) Shuja-ucl-daula, Nawab Vizier of Oudh.
(3) xhe Jftts occupied territory to the westward of the Kohillas.
198 [No. 174.
with us. The King is at Delhi in union, that is, in subjection
to the Marrattas.
" I am, with the most sincere regard, dear Sir, your obhged
and faithful servant,
" Warren Hastings."
[Autograph, 6 pp., Uo. Duplicate.]
[No. 175.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1772, September 27th, Madras. — I enclose my last letter,
which missed the ship at Tellicherry. Hence I am not yet in
correspondence with Mr. Sulivan ; in fact it will be of little use
to write to him, as we hear he is to be our next Governor. I
received your letter of the 2nd December from Haldon House,
and one of the 2nd February(i) from Park Place, delivered
by Captain Baker. The orders received from home
commend our proceedings except in regard to Coote. In this
matter the Directors are inconsistent: — "When Coote comes
out they declare his commission to be similar to that of General
Lawrence ; while the General remained here under that commission
they declared their Governor to be their superior military officer ;
and now they say they intended that Coote should have had
the powers he claimed. I am ashamed of them . . . The papers
and some private letters make mention of a speech made by
Coote in the House of Commons relative to the discipline of
our troops. The confidence of some people is astonishing !
Could you believe that this man never saw any of the troops
whilst he was here but those of Madras (allowed on all hands
to be the worst disciplined in the service), and the recruits at
Poonamallee, and yet he could take upon himself universally
to condemn ? . . ."
I am glad that the plan of sending out Supervisors is
suspended, though they might have been of some use in Bengal.
" Hastings is warm on the plan of reformation, and has already
so curtailed the expences as to render the clear revenues to
the Company much more considerable than they were . . .1
have seen more of the charges laid against Lord Clive than has
possibly fallen to your share or that of most in England, and
have not a doubt respecting the truth of most of the articles ;
and yet I do not think the accused will meet with their deserts.
The truth is that they cannot suffer without others are also
involved, and I imagine that after some little bustle in the
House of Commons the affair will drop."
I told you in my last of the expedition projected against the
Marawars. "It did take place accordingly, and with little
trouble the countries of both Marawars were subdued. The
treasure taken in Ramanadapuram and Calacoil is said to have
been immense ; but whatever sums were then obtained, the
(1) Vide No. 149, p. 169, and No. 153, p. 170.
No. 175.] 194
acquisition to the Nabob is immense, as the countries, even
without tyranny and oppression, are well worth 20 lacks of
rupees per annum . . . The Colleriesd) in those parts are still
troublesome, and the eldest soni^) with a detachment keep[s]
the field ; but every thing must be soon totally subdued . . .
The Marattas, finding it impossible totally to subdue Hyder,
have compromised matters for 60 lacks and returned to their
own country. Hyder will not be in a condition to disturb us
for some time. The Soubah is too weak to create troubles in
the Circars. The French are by all accounts returned to Europe
with their ships and troops, and I think matters wear a general
aspect of peace. We have had no disputes with the Plenipo
since those I wrote you of, though there have been some little
bickerings with the Admiral, but not of much moment . . .
" It is now the 2nd October, eleven years this day since we
landed at Madras. How many more shall I be obliged to
slave ? I shall have much to say to you when Du Pre leaves
us. I think that in him I have made a valuable addition to
my friends ..."
"W. M. GOODLAD."
[Holograph, 7 pp., Uo.]
[No. 176.]
J[ohn[ M[axwell] Stone to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, September 30th, Fort St. George. — I send this by the
Hawke, sloop, which the Admiral is dispatching to the Cape.
" The Morattas, having made peace with Hyder Ally, are
returned to their own country. The Maravar and Naalcooty*^'
Polygars have, at the desire of the Nabob, been reduced. We
have now two detachments in the field, the one employed in
assisting the Nabob to settle that country, and the other is
going against the Polygars in the Tinnevelly country, whom we
were obliged to call to account in 1765, and whom the Nabob
represents as being refractory and disobedient. Our disputes
with His Majesty's Minister are for the present subsided. Most
of the French troops are returned to Europe from the Islands,
and the Company's affairs on this coast wear as favourable an
aspect as can be expected considering the state of their present
connexions with the Nabob . . .
" You will probably have received advices from other hands
of the death of Mr. Morse. Mrs. Morse, soon after the event,
sent for me and requested of me, in case of her death, to be one
of her executors. My earnest desire of affording all the
assistance in my power to a family so respectable, and with
whom you are so nearly connected, induced me to assure Mrs.
(1) The CoUeries (Kallars) of Madura and Tinnevelly, men skilled in forest
warfare, formed the irregular levies of the local Poiigars.
(2) Umdat-ul-Umara.
(8) The Nalkottai Poligar was the Little Maravar. He is now styled Raja of
Sivaganga.
195 [No. 176.
Morse of my readiness to accept of the charge." Mrs. Morse
has since been seriously ill, but is now better. " On the death
of Mr. Morse, Mr. Boddam(i) at Tellicherry requested that I
would, with Mr. De Friez, take charge of his affairs. This I
have consented to, and so much the more readily as Mr. De
Friez, who had the management of them in Mr. Morse's time,
is well acquainted with the state of them.
" After just seventeen years' service I was in June last taken
into Council and appointed a member of the Select Committee.
By desire of Mr. Du Pr^ I still, however, retain my post of
Secretary to both." I shall be glad to relinquish the secretary-
ship, which I have held for ten years. " Whenever I resign I
believe Goodlad will succeed to my department, for which no
one is better qualified . . .
" I believe Mr. Du Pre will certainly leave us in January.
It will not be easy to find a person endowed with equal abilities,
steadiness and attention to business to succeed him. We have
no intimation from home who the person is to be. If a successor
does not arrive before his departure, he will leave the charge
of the Government in the hands of Mr. Wynch.
"I hope Mrs. Stone and my little girl are before this time
safely arrived in England . . ."
[Holograph, 6-| pp., 4to.] " J. M. Stone."
[No. 177.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr.
, 1772, October 2nd, Fort St. George.—" Captain Baker
brought me your esteemed favor of the 7th February. . . I am
sorry to say that his watering scheme will entirely overset my
employ, as, if he pleases, [he] may furnish all the shipping with
water, which ... is almost the only perquisite belonging to
my employ, and which, since the arrival of the squadron, has
been something considerable." I have represented this to Mr.
Du Pre, who admits the hardship but will not interfere.
" By the death of Mr. Morse Mr. Goodlad is, I believe, yoiir
sole attorney. I shall regularly pay him the rent of Miss Palk's
house, which, if ever you should chuse to dispose of, I will be
glad to purchase at what price you may please to put on it . . "
The person sent out to succeed me is a Mr. Taswell, who is
trying to secure the command of a country ship until I leave
the service. My health has not been good of late, and I shall
resign if Captain Baker succeeds with his water scheme. The
latter has not treated me generously, and I hope you will use
your influence to prevent my being deprived of the right of
watering the shipping. Failing this, I might share the right
with Captain Baker, with whose town water supply I should
not interfere. " Reyno. Adams."
[Autograph, 2f pp., flscp. Duplicate.]
(1) Rawson Hart Boddam, afterwards Governor of Bombay.
196
[No. 178.]
W[illiam] M[artin] Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, October 3rd, Fort St. George. — In my letter of the
30th September " I mentioned the death of Mr. Morse. By
this accident and the departure of Mr. Hastings, Wynch and
I are left your only attornies here, and he probably will not
remain long with us, and it is therefore necessary that you
should join someone with me. It will be necessary also that
you send particular instructions relative to your affairs in general,
for the executors of Mr. Morse tell me that your sentiments
are partly conveyed in private letters to him and partly in
general letters to your attornies. His affairs are left in so
perplexed a state that, though he died in May, I could not
obtain the papers till a few days ago." The amount due to
you will be about Pags. 6,500, and to the General Pags. 1,500.
" Permit me to recommend Mr. William Petrief^' to be joined
with me in the management of your affairs. I know his worth,
or I would not mention him."
"W. M. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4ito.]
[No. 179.]
Chocapah to the Hon'ble Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, October 10th, Fort St. George. — " Governour Du
Pre's intention is to place Mr. Wynch in the government of
this place, and to take his passage home in January next. This"
gentleman in every respect made a good Governour, and all the
inhabitants in these parts enjoyed peace and quietness in his
government. The Marattys has at last settled with Hyder
Ally, and received eighty lacks of rupees and gone up to their
country. I hope they will not [give] trouble to the Carnatick
for sometime ; and Hyder, after settling with them, is preparing
his army to go against the King of Travencore to see if he can
get any thing there."
The French received three ships from France this year with
goods and money. At Pondicherry they have now 700 men
and 400 sepoys, and works of fortification are being carried on
by M. Law. " Mr. Charles Smith'^' went to Pondichery in
August last and stayed there for about a month, married one of
the daughters of Mr. Law, who was a military officer when that
place was taken by the English, and brought her sister with him
to get her a husband. General Smith resigned the service to
Colonel Sir Robert Fletcher, and intends taking his passage
home in January next."
(1) William Petrie, a Madras civil servant of 1765, became Besideut at Nagore
on the acquisition of that territory in 1778. He subsequently erected an astro-
nomical observatory at Madras, which was taken over by Government in 1789.
In the foUowing year Petrie entered Sir Charles Oakeley's Council as second member,
and in 1800 he was appointed Governor of Prince of Wales's Island, where he died
in 1816.
(2) Charles Smith, Vide No. 118, p. 146, note 1.
197 [No. 179.
Mr. Andrews'^* has resigned the service and goes to England ;
Mr. Stratton<2) has become Chief at Vizagapatam, and Mr.
Brooke(2) is to reheve Mr. Wynch at MasuHpatam. It is reported
that Mr. Sulivan will come out as Governor. If he does, please
recommend me to him. " Mr. Morse departed this life the
28th May last, who was a father and freind to all the people
in Madrass. Jangama Chitty is in prison ever since your honour
went home, and he has hardly any thing to maintain himself.
I don't think he is able to discharge any part of your debts ..."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 180.]
Chocapah to the Hon'ble Charles Bourchier, Esqr.
[The greater part of this letter is identical with No. 179 to
Robert Palk.]
1772, October 10th, Fort St. George.— " I have in my
former letters advised your honour of the bad situation
Cheppermall Chitty's<*) affairs were in, and that he was greatly
reduced ... for want of business in the Mint . . , and therefore
requested your honour would be pleased to intercede in his
behalf to Lord Pigot, and get his Lordship to excuse him of the
debt he owes to him . . ." " Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 181.]
J[ohn] M[axwell] Stone to Robert Palk, Esqr,
1772, October 15th, Fort St. George.— The subject of this
letter has long been on my mind, but before discussing|it I
desire to thank you for your favourable mention of me to some
of the Directors. My obligations to you are very great.
" I am well aware how irksome, and I may say odious, a task
it is to arraign the capacities and abilities of men ; and I am
thoroughly sensible that such an attempt may be imputed to
presumption or arrogance or, what is worse, to motives of self-
interest and advantage. However, as I am conscious that
my intentions are only to promote the good of the Company ;
as I am convinced that I am addressing a friend to whom I may
with safety lay open my sentiments without reserve from an
assurance that an improper use will not be made of them, I shall
lay them before you with that freedom which I think the
subject requires.
" I remember, when you was in India, to have frequently
looked over with you the list of Company's servants on this
(1) John Andrews. Vide No. 52, p. 78, note 1.
(2) George Stratton. Vide No. 47, p. 72, note 6.
(3) Henry Brooke. Vide No. 31, p. 51, note 2.
(*' Cheppermall Chitty, also called Tapermaul Chitty, succeeded his father
linga Chetti in 1757 as native manager of the Mint under tlie Assay Master.
No. 181.J 198
establishment. The remarks made by you at that time with
respect to some of them have since made a deeper impression
on my mind ; and I every day see more forcibly the danger
to which this Government may be exposed by admitting persons
into Council merely because they stand next in succession,
without a proper regard to their merit and abilities. It is true
the repeated orders of the Company on this subject are
sufficiently clear and express, and give the Board full latitude
in the choice of their members ; but it is a subject of a very
tender and delicate nature, and there are few men who are
willing to declare publickly on their records their opinion of
any one when such opinion may tend to the prejudice of the
person in question."
You are well acquainted with the characteristics of the present
meihbers of the Board ; and in view of the approaching
departure of Mr. Du Pre and the difficulties we may have to
meet in connection with the Minister and the Nawab, I would
urge that future selections for the Council should be regulated
on the basis of ability and strength of character rather than
seniority. Should such a course be adopted, " I will venture
to say that the Company cannot fix upon a person more
deserving in every respect of such a mark of their preference
than Goodlad. I acknowledge the sincere friendship I have for
him ; but at the same time I can assure you that is not the
motive which weighs with me. I am induced to mention him
from the perfect knowledge I have of his disposition, capacity
and abilities, and to which you are no stranger ; and I may add
that the credit and reputation with which he has so long filled
one of the most laborious and difficult employs in the service
would, in my opinion, well justify such a mark of the Company's
favor and attention . . ." " J. M. Stone."
[Holograph, 9 pp., 4io.]
[No. 182.]
Jos [i as] Du Pre to [Robert] Palk, Esqr.
1772, October 15th, Fort St. George. Received 12th April,
1773. — " I wish a successor had been appointed that I might
have crossed the surf with all due forms. Yet considering that
all our affairs are in tranquility, that my constitution is worn
out, and that I have 150 other good reasons, I seriously intend
to seat our friend Wynch in the Chair and embark for Europe
in -January. My enemies will blame me. I have weighed
the consequences on both sides. The arguments for going
appear to me irresistable, and I yield to them . . .
" Our best wishes wait on Mrs. Palk and your family. Pray
remember me to the worthy General."
" Jos. Du Pre."
[P.S.] — " The plate I received from Mr. Bourchier has been
valued and the amount paid to Mr. Morse, who, you will hear,
199 [No. 182.
is numbered with those who have lived. I have shown to Mrs.
Morse every attention in my power.
" Don't beheve them — those I mean who told you we
threatened to appeal to a higher tribunal. We said no such
thing, but we made them ashamed of themselves for what
they said, and they did not know how to get off but by accusing
us of what we never said. Peace be with them. I deliver them
over to their own consciences, if they have any."
[Holograph, 1| p., 4io.]
[No. 183.]
Edward Cotsford(I) to [Robert Palk, Esqr.j.
1772, October 15th, Madrass. Received 12th April, 1773.—
," Dear Sir, After so long a silence it is with difficulty I can
prevail on myself to address you at all ; not through want of
inclination, but from a conviction that it requires more rhetoric
than I am master of to set forth sufficient reasons for haying
so long neglected paying you my respects . . .
" About two months after your departure for England I was
under the necessity of leaving Ganjam through illness, having
been brought to death's door by a violent fever. During my
absence Narraindoo'^' (Zemeindar of Khimedy and since dead)
took possession of all the northern part of the Cicacole Circar,
so that I escaped being made a prisoner, but lost all the effects
I had at Ganjam. Some time afterwards, in consequence of
the war with Hyder Ally, a very considerable reinforcement of
troops were transported to the Coast from Calcutta, and
proceeded by the way of Commamett and Worangol tov/ards
Hyderabad, which brought the Soubah of the Deean to a peace
with us. The Bengal detachment not being wanted in the
Carnatic, it was employed in reducing Narraindoo, and in which
they so far succeeded as to drive him out of the country and
take all his forts and strongholds.
" At the time the peace was made with the Soubah I made
application to Mr. Bourchier to return again to Ganjam,
thinking it a favourable juncture for getting a detachment of
seapoys for the service of the Itchapour district, to act under
my own orders. The Governour at first did not encourage it,
judging there was but a small probability of any advantage
accruing to the Company from the measure, and also a great
risque to myself. For my own part, I was an adventurer, and
had nothing to lose. So I returned again and carried with
(1) Captain Edward Cotsford entered the military service in Dec., 1758, as
Practitioner Engineer and Ensign, but his name was also borne on the civil list
from 1759. He served in the Manila expedition of 1762 and in the two sieges of
Madm'a. After a visit' to England he was appointed by Palk in 1766 to be Resident
in Ganjam, a post he occupied for several years. He was independent of the Chief
at Vizagapatam and was responsible directly to Madras. In 1776 he prepared for
Orme a monograph on the development of the Port St. George defences from 1743
to the time of the siege of 1758-59.
(2) Narayan Deo. Vide No. 42, p. 68, note 2.
No. 183.] 200
me a detachment, and was as expeditious as I possibly could
with the Zemeindars that I might not lose the opportunity of
the vicinity of the Bengal detachment. At the close of the war
with Hyder Ally the Europeans of the Bengal detachment
embarked for Calcutta at Vizagapatam, and the three battalions
of seapoys proceeded by land, that being an indulgence promised
them at their embarkation for the Coast. In their passage
through the Itchapour country I made use of their presence as
essentially as I could consistent with the time they were to
stay and reflections on what my situation would be after their
departure. I have since from time to time been reinforced,
and we have now stationed in that district fifteen companies
of seapoys and the Coffery'i' company.
" I have been extreamly fortunate in every measure I have
engaged in in that country, and have brought the Zemeindars
into some kind of order, though not without a considerable
share of trouble and some loss of men, having had killed and
wounded in all at different times between 4 and 500 men.
However, the Company have not lost a grain of military
reputation, and their revenues there are increased. We have
not yef began an Investment, the country not being in a state
to undertake it without the risking the loss of the money, the
weaving villages lying in the Zemeindaries for the most part. . .
At present it yields an annual profit of 150,000 rupees, after
paying the charges civil and military, and expence of fortification
and buildings. The Fort is nearly finished with a revetement —
I mean the body of the place — and is sufficiently large to contain
all the buildings necessary for merchandize and military stores
suitable to the degree of importance of the place. As you are
the person to whom I am indebted for this post, I have been
somewhat more particular than I should otherwise have been.
It has answered my expectations in every respect, and I feel
the greatest pleasure in informing you that my conduct has
always been approved by the Board.
" The Zemeindaries dependant on Vizagapatam are for the
most part under the immediate management of Sitteram
Rauze,(2) which is undoubtedly improper, as it prevents the
Chief there from ever gaining such a knowledge of the country
as is absolutely necessary to enable him to ascertain the real
value of the country, and how far the revenues will bear
increasing ; and in all other respects it prevents the authority
of the Company from being felt and understood. When that
country was first taken possession of, it was, I suppose, absolutely
necessary to support Sitteram Rauze in all the power he could
possess himself of; but according to my judgment the reasons
for such a conduct do not now subsist. It appears to me that
every Zemeindar should be independant of Sitteram Rauze
(who himself is no more than a Zemeindar) and of each other,
<1) Cofery. Vide No. 79, p. HO, note 2.
(2) Vide No. 19, p. 28, note 5.
201 [No. 183.
and transact all their affairs immediately with the Chief . . .
The only reason which can be offered in favour of it [sic] is that he
is more capable, through his authority and knowledge of the
country, of keeping in subjection those Zemeindars whose lands
lie amongst the hills and in the interior part of the Circar. But
this is by no means the case, as I know by experience that 100
of our seapoys will go where a thousand of his people dare not
shew themselves.
" Some months since Hussein Ally Khan died, and the
Company, I believe, allow one lack of rupees per annum to his
children in lieu of the Jaguire held by the father ; and the
lands which formed the Jaguire have been returned to two of
the Zemeindars, whose property they originally were, and their
tribute in consequence proportionably increased.
" Since the war with Hyder Ally the Nabob's affairs are, I
believe, in a very flourishing state, as he has paid oft a very
considerable part of his debts both publick and private, besides
maintaining -a very respectable army. He has been very
successful against the Rajah of Tanjour and the countries of
the Great and Little Maravas. In some forts of the last mentioned
places he found very considerable riches. An expedition is now
talked of against the King of Travancore. Notwithstanding
the good state of his affairs, I believe the Nabob was never less
at ease than he is at present at any period of his life scarce.
The interposition of the Crown in his affairs and the great
attention paid to him by Sir John Lindsay caused him to assvwne
an appearance of independance on the Governor and Council
he had never before shewn. He has also by the same means
acquired a very clear idea of the nature of our Constitution ;
but I believe he is loaded with doubts and fears, which the
knowledge he has gained seems only to increase. He has
discernment enough to perceive that he is in a labyrinth. He
knows by experience the power of the Company, and fears the
greater jjpwer of the Government.
" A few days since. Sir Robert Harland, with the squadron
under his command, left this coast for Bombay. He did not
take leave of the Governor, as he thought it inconsistent with
his station to pay that compliment to any one acting under
the authority of the Company. And the Governor resented it
by not taking any notice of him at his departure, for he went
on board without having any publick honours shewn him, and
was not even saluted with cannon. Various opinions are given
on Mr. du Pre's conduct, and I dare say this matter will make
some noise in England.
" Sir Robert Fletcher, who is now with me, desires his
compliments to yourself and Mrs. Palk, with wishes for your
health and happiness. Edward Cotsfoed."
[P.S.]— " I am now here on a visit, and shall return again
to Ganjam in a few days."
[Holograph, 7| pp., 4to.]
202
[No. 184.J
Tho[ma]s Palk to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1772, November 10th, Calcutta.—" I left Madras the
beginning of September to come here ... I have at last paid
my brother the long intended visit. I arrived here the 24th of
October, when I found him very well. It is with much concern
I tell you of the loss he has lately met with (which gave him
much affliction for a long time) by the death of his wife. I
cannot help expressing the greatest concern on my side for the
loss of that amiable woman ... I am sorry to inform you of
the death of Mr. Morse, my most valuable friend, for so he was
to the strictest meaning of the word ; and the good old lady has
been at death's door herself, but she is now perfectly well again.
She has taken her passage with Captain Elphinston of the
Triton . . .
" I am still under Mr. Secretary Goodlad. Had I been
appointed at the time an opportunity happened at Masulipatam,
I might in this [have] been money in pocket. I should have
been near Captain Madge, whose assistance I should not have
found wanting. I had the pleasure of seeing him in my way
here at that place, where he commands, who offered me then
the loan of a sum of money, which I refused for several reasons.
Mr. Bourchier not only talked of his friendship for me, but might
have really proved himself a friend, so that I have nothing to
thank him for, and very little more Mr. J. Call. His intentions
might be good, but they have proved contrary.
" I find from my brother [that] he wrote last year requesting
Grace(i> might be sent out to him, and he as well as myself were
a little surprized she did not arrive. I should be exceeding glad
to see her, as I hear she is grown a fine girl. . . My brother,
notwithstanding his misfortunes, is in a fair way of doing well
for himself, though I don't see how he could otherwise, as he
has had all the advantages he could wish for ..."
"Thos. Palk."
" P.S. — Mr. H. Vansittart was at Madras some time with his
grand father. He is now at Patna with his uncle, and no doubt
will turn out a cliver man, as there is all the appearance at
present of it."
[Holograph, 8 pp., Mo.]
[No. 185.]
Warren Hastings to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, November 11th, Fort William. Received 19th April,
per Lapwing. — " Dear Sir, The last letter I addressed to you,
if I am not mistaken, was dated September 7th. This is to
acknowledge your favor of the 26th March, 1772.
" It affords me no inconsiderable concern to observe the
people of England, and even our Hon'ble Masters, who should
(1) Grace Palk. Vide No. 162, p. 180, note 3.
203 [No. 185.
lorm their opinions with more candour and exactness, thus
easily induced to the credit of every calumny put forth by each
paltry scribbler of the day. The productions of Boltsd) and
Dowe(2) are medhes replete, though not in an equal degree,
with abominable untruths, base aspersions and absurdities.
How cruel to judge the reputation of any one by such criterions !
" I have exerted my poVv^er to the utmost to destroy even
the shadow of Mahomed Riza Cawn's influence. I have placed
his enemies in his seat, and have him under a secure confinement.
When I shall be able to release him God knows. It is my
intention to bring him to his trial ; and I flatter myself the issue
will prove that if I am not his enemy (as in fact I by no means
am) yet I am incapable of being prepossessed either by partiality
or bribe to serve him : but I am overwhelmed with present
business and cannot look back.
"I am sorry the House of Commons should think of estab-
lishing laws for this country, ignorant as they are of the laws
in being, of the manners and customs of the inhabitants, or of
the form of government. I hope the Act will not take place,
for should it, every thing we have done will be destroyed, and
my labour will prove like the toil of Sisyphus.
" As before, I enclose my letter to Mr. Sulivan to you. You
will read it and then deliver it to him, as I know not where he
is and do not admire trusting my correspondence in strange
hands.
" Poor Griffiths(3) is with me. What shall I do with him ?
He is a good and a valuable young man, and will do credit to
your patronage if you will employ it to get him into the service.
" I am, with an unfeigned and most affectionate regard, dear
Sir, your most obedient and faithful servant,
" Warren Hastings."
[Holograph, 3 pp., Mo.]
[No. 186.]
Colonel Gilbert Ironside to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1772, November 11th, Fort William. — " I have been favoured
by your letter of the 19th March by Mr. Berdmore'*) ... I
took him in my hand to Mr. Hastings, and shall remember to
remind the Governour of your desire to have him placed at some
advantageous station. He appears to be a good young man . . .
" By the Lapwing, Captain Gardener, I do myself the pleasure
to send you the Arabian MSS. mentioned in my letter of the
15th of last April . . Mr. Hastings has began well. Qualis
(1) William Bolts, a Dutchman, was formerly In the Bengal civil service. He
was deported in 1768, and subsequently published a work attacking the Bengal
Government.
(2) Alexander Dow, translator of FerisMa and author of a History of HinduMan,
1770.
(3) Henry Griffiths. Vide No. 88, p. 117, note 1.
(*) Samuel Beardmore, a cadet. Vide No. 226, p. 230, note 2.
No. 186.] 204
ab incepto processerit, et sibi constet. He had three or four mean,
dirty, factious oppositions to contend with on his outset, but
by tlie force of abihty, assiduity, temper, steadiness and
moderation has already almost surmounted them all . . .
" Mr. Vansittart and Mr. Palk are extremely well. Mrs.
Van is lately recovered from lying in. Poor Mrs. Palk died in
June, much regretted for her gentle amiable disposition. Mrs.
Van, Mr. Palk, with his brother and Lieut. Stonhouse, visitors
from Madras, Kve together at the gardens about a mile from
town. George, it is expected, will be called down to take his
seat at the Board about February. . . The fortunes of civihans
are at present created from the rank of Senior Merchants to
Factors, while the Council as well as the Governour are starving."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.] " Gilbert Ironside."
[No. 187.]
Hen[ry] Griffiths'I) to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1772, November 12th, Calcutta. — Accept my grateful thanks
for your efforts on my behalf. " Mr. Hastings, to whom you
were so kind [as] to recommend me, has done every thing in his
power to serve me. I am at present at his house in expectation
of being employed. It will be shortly, I hope, as a young man
cannot live here on a trifle and without the emoluments of
any employ . . . ."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4to,] " Hen. Griffiths."
[No. 188.]
Tho[ma]s Palk to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1772, December 1st, Calcutta. — " I some time ago was
requested by your attornies to deliver to them an account of
the estate of my two deceased cousins, which I should have
done had I come at the least knowledge of [it], though I have
not had anything to do regarding it. . . I am sorry to observe
to you, though I believe I have done it in a former letter,
of his having left a child unprovided for, which is a cruel
circumstance. . . . Captain Madge and myself shall be careful
that it never wants . . . Madge as well as myself are sorry that
we were so hasty in giving Palk's mother an estimate of the
estate, as we might have detained some part of it for its
maintenance without her suffering by it, as the death of her
two sons ought by no means to lay her under the expectations
of an independency . . .
" I request. Sir, that you will deliver the enclosed to my young
sister Grace, who I as well as my brother are waiting with
great impatience to see . , .
"Thos. Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4to.]
(1) Henry Griffiths. Vide No. 88, p. 117, note 1.
205
[No. 189.J
Stephen Sulivan'I) to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
N.D. [?1772] Sunday. Essex Court, Temple.—" For God's
sake, my dear Sir, let me entreat you by that love and regard
that I hope you still have for one who will always be proud of
your good opinion, let me entreat you to pay that attention
that I wish to the subject of this letter, for in so doing you will
confer a favor upon me greater than it is possible for you to
conceive, unless you could put yourself into my particular
situation. But, do what you will, I am afraid that you cannot
relieve my mind from those uneasy reflections with which it
has been agitated for some time past, though I have had
fortitude enough to disguise it from the world. It is but too
certain that I am distressed for money : if therefore, without
an inconvenience to yourself, you could give me an order for
5001., I pledge myself to you, as a young man who never yet
deceived anybody, that at the expiration of six months I will
repay you most chearfuUy ; and this (I speak positively) the
remittances of my own income from Ireland will enable me
to do.
" I ought now. Sir, from a principle of justice to you as well
as to myself, after having made known my request, to make you
acquainted likewise with the reasons for this application ;
otherwise at first sight it may seem to argue a something in my
own conduct that might expose me to the just reproof of a parent,
which I therefore mean to avoid, or else a distrust of that
parent, as if he had refused to supply me in whatever was
reasonable, and had therefore reduced me to the necessity of
soUiciting in another quarter. From both these imputations
I can affirm with safety that I am free. There is no part of my
conduct (though perhaps it has never been, nor is at present,
nor ever will be, such as I wish it), there is no part of my conduct
that I would. not submit tomorrow to my father's examination,
because I know that as long as he continues to be a father to
me, so long will he continue to be a friend. And I profess
further that from my earliest infancy to this hour, from the
moment that I have been capable of thinking, I have experienced
such a continual series of kind offices and attentions as few other
young men beside myself have experienced. What is it then
that hinders me from taking that liberal and open method, to
which my inclination leads me, of unbosoming myself to you
without reserve, as I shall always look upon you, next to my
own parent, the most worthy of my confidence and esteem ? I
will answer you fairly. It is a nice sense of honor, a delicacy
of sentiment and a firm regard to my word — considerations
from which nothing can move me . . •
" Adieu ! my dear Sir. Think more for me than I am able
to express, for if, you knew with what reluctance I have brought
(1) Son of Laurence Sulivan,
No. 189.] 206
myself to write to a'^ou, and the peculiarity of my situation at
present, you would make considerable allowances. Indeed I
am not used to such a trade as this. It hurts that commendable
pride that has been the fruit of a generous education ; and yet
necessity must overcome even motives stronger than these. I am,
with perfect regard, your sincere friend and obedient servant,
[Holograph, 3 pp., Mo.] " Stephen Sulivan."
[No. 190.]
Memorandum of Reforms Effected by Hastings in 1772.
N.D. [?1772] — " In the beginning of June Mr. Hastings left
Calcutta with a deputation from the Council consisting of Messrs.
Middleton, Dacres, Lawrell and Graham'", and they continued
at the city(2) till the middle of September executing the orders
of the Court of Directors transmitted by the Lapwing packet.
Mahomed Ryza Cawn and Shittabroy(^) were removed from
their offices. An o[e]conomical arrangement was made of
the Nawab's household. Munny Begum, wife of Jaffier Ali
Cawn, was constituted guardian to the Nawab. Rajah Goordass,
son of Nund-Comar, was appointed Naib Dewan, and Rajah
Juggut Chund his Peshkar or steward. A settlement was made
of the revenue by leases at an increasing rent for five years.
All the useless pensions were withdrawn, and none continued
except to the old provincial families — a considerable saving
and beneficial, as it rids the Nawab's court of a parcel of
foreigners (chiefly Persians), infamous retainers to it. A
thorough regulation was established in all the Courts and offices
of the State, whether civil, criminal or of revenue. These
Courts with their records were removed to the Presidency, and
the Council of Durbar in consequence dissolved. Regulations
were formed for a certain, easy and perspicuous method for
the receipt of future collections. A reform took place in the
silk manufactories. Mr. Middleton was continued Chief of
Cassimbuzar, Resident at the city, and Collector of the districts
dependant on Mursheedabad. The three youngest members
of the Committee proceeded to Dacca to make the settlement
of the Eastern provinces.
" Since the return of the Governour to the Presidency his
time has been occupied (exclusive of the current business) in
adjusting a regular method of conducting the management of
the revenue at Calcutta. Various plans were presented and
considered. By some it was proposed that every Counsellor
should have his distinct department of some Court, or Collector
General of some province, with an appeal to lie to the Governour
in the last resort ; but this was rejected on account of the many
(1) Samuel Middleton, Philip M. Dacres, James Lawrell and John Graham.
(2) Murshidabad.
(3) Muhammad Baza Khan and Shatab Bai were Naibs or Deputies of the
Nawab for the provinces of Bengal and Bihar respectively, and virtual rulers of
those territories.
207 [No. 190.
difficulties it was fraught with, and abuses it appeared liable to.
The system actually adopted is : — One of the Counsellors to
preside, in weekly rotation, over all the revenue business, the
papers and accounts of which are delivered to him by the
Counsellor next in rank, who previously audits them after they
have been examined by the Mutsuddees'^' and Company's
servants in the several offices. A daily report is made of every
thing to the Governour by the Royryan'^' and the superiour
native officers, and a periodical one to the Board by the weekly
presidents and auditors. The employment of auditor is an
introduction of the Governour' s, and is found to answer so
well that he designs to fix such an officer in every department."
[2| pp., flscp. Unsigned.]
[No. 191.]
Tho[ma]s Palk to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1773, January 11th, Calcutta. — " I am still here with my
brother, who contributes every thing in his power to my
pleasure, as this happens to be the season for all sorts of diver-
sions, of which we have little or none on the Coast." When
I hear from Mr. Wynch, who by this time must have succeeded
Mr. Du Pre, I shall decide about returning to Madras. " My
beloved friend General Smith" goes home "on the Triton, in
consequence of which the command of the troops has devolved
on Sir Robert Fletcher, who is universally despised, the court
martial business'^' having laid a stain on his principles that will
never be forgot or washed out. Consequently I have not the
least intimacy with him." There is a report here, which I do
not credit, that Mr. Barwell,'*) of the Bengal Council, is to be
Governor of Madras. Should it prove true, I shall take care
to ingratiate myself with him.
" Mr. George Vansittart is coming down from his Chief ship
at Patna to take his seat at the Board. Mrs. V., my brother
and myself are going up as far as Cossimbazar to meet him in
a week more, a thing not common in this country for a wife to go
any small distance to meet her husband.
" The army here is in motion. They are marched up to the
frontiers of Suja ul Dowlah's country to be a check on the
Morattoes. They have paid the King of Delhi a visit, and were
very ruffiy received by him. The King and them have had
an engagement, in which the former was worsted, with great
loss on both sides ....
" Mr. Secretary Goodlad, since I have left Madras, has been
in a very dangerous way. He has had a violent attack in his
liver, for which he has been cut, and is recovering very fast ..."
"Thos. Palk."
(1) Mutsuddee, mutasaddi, writer, clerk.
(2) JRoyryan, rairaian; chief revenue officer under the Diwan.
(3) Lieut-Colonel Sir Robert Fletcher was cashiered in 1766 for supporting the
combination of Bengal officers. Cf. No. 141, p. 163, note 2.
(*) Richard Barwell, afterwards a member of the Supreme Council.
No. 191.] 208
" P.S. — I beg leave to hint to you that it will be doing me
in [sic] a great service to prefer me as a tenant to the one'^* in it,
as the present one rather makes more use of it as godowns'^)
than a dwelling house. Your attorney must also have your
directions regarding it. It will be easy to get him out without
giving offence by your specifying that you chuse to serve me
preferable to one who has less right to expect it. Be so good.
Sir, as to take notice of this by the first ship."
[Holograph, 6 pp., 4to.]
[No. 192.]
Ant[hon]y Goodlad to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1773, [cir. January 11th], Calcutta. — T received your letter
of the 7th February by Mr. Kennawayi^', to whom I will show
every attention. For the last two months he has been my
assistant in the Translator's office, where he is working well.
From the correspondence of Mr. Hastings with Mr. Sulivan you
doubtless know of the various changes made by the Governor.
" I shall be happy if they meet with the approbation of the
Gentlemen at home, but they are of late so very difficult to
please that I must confess in many instances I doubt of success.
Mr. Cartier returns to Europe upon this ship after having
experienced, I must say, the severest treatment from his
employers for his 23 years' services. If a disinterested conduct
in a public capacity is meritorious in these days, they will never
meet with such another Governor of Bengal.
" A violent attack of the liver, which my brother Martin has
labored under for some time past, and for which he has under-
gone the operation of having his side opened, gives me too much
reason to apprehend that a trip to Europe is absolutely necessary
for the re-establishment of his health. I am very sorry for
the occasion, as it cannot, I am afraid, prove otherwise than
highly prejudicial to his interest . . . He is the head and support
of the family, and on his success depends the enjoyment and
happiness of the whole . . ."
"A. W. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 5|- pp.. Mo.]
[No. 193.]
Ja[me]s Daniell(*> to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, January 28th, Cuddalore. — I venture to write to you
on behalf of our common friend Sir Robert Fletcher, who " has
not only felt the effects of Mr. Du Pre's measures since the
resignation of General Smith, but has some reason to apprehend
(1' Reynold Adams, tenant of Palk's house in Port St. George.
(2) Oodown. Vide No. 2, p. 5, note 10.
(31 Richard Kennaway. Vide No. 153, p. 171, -note 4.
(*> James Daniell, a Madras civil servant of 1761, entered Council in 1777. He
was Chief at Masulipatam in 1782, and retired in 1785.
209 [No. 193.
his representation of them at home. Sir Robert is of course
obHged to exert all his influence to prevent such an intention ;
and as you have been often pleased to serve him at the tribunal
of Leaden hall, he hopes you will not forsake him on the present
occasion . . . ."
I chanced to see the papers relating to recent disputes in
Council, which are now transmitted to Europe. They are
voluminous, but I can give you an idea of the origin of the trouble
in a few words. " It began by an application from the Nabob,
introduced by the Governor, to be addressed from the Board
under the title of ArzdasW-^i ; and the impropriety of doing
so will appear to you by reading the different dissents. The
Governor has, however, succeeded, and though this mode of
address is only used throughout Indostan from an inferior to
a superior, the Governor and Council have adopted the practise.
When a difference of opinion has once appeared between men
in power, it seldom ceases on a sudden, but serves only as a
prelude to other discords. So it is in the present instance, and
as the authority of command is a theme on which Mr. Du Pre
has often exercised his abilities, it has been again renewed with
all its force. Sir Robert, in consequence, has been voted from
the Council and ordered within 2 days to proceed to the
command of the fort and garrison of Tritchenopoly, Thus is
he placed beyond the reach of opposition and deprived of his
seat at the Board, to which the Court of Directors have been
pleased to appoint him. On a perusal of the papers you will
be able to form a judgment of the propriety of Sir Robert's
proceedings, and determine if any part is the effect of private
pique, or contrary to the intention of his employers. If not,
I presume that you will not only assist his cause, but exert your
influence with the Directors to assist the rights of justice and
prevent the attempts of a misrepresentation.
" Sir Robert would have wrote to you on this subject if his
time had permitted him to do so. He passed here yesterday
on his way to Tritchenopoly, and desired me to communicate
the substance of his cause, and hopes you will admit his apology
for not addressing you himself.
" You may much better conceive that [?than] I can express
my feelings by closing this letter with the accoxmt of poor
Goodlad's death. He had been lately cut for an inflammation
in his liver, and a relapse carried him off. He is universally
lamented, and the Company have reason to regret the loss of
his abilities."
" Jas. Dantell."
[Holograph, 5 pp., 4to.]
(1) Arzdasht, Pers., a humble (written) petition. It is not a title, as stated by
Daniell, but a respectful form of address.
210
[No. 194.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, .January 28th, Fort St. George. — " Governour Du Pre
takes his passage home on the Nassau . . . and leaves the
Government in the hands of Alexander Wynch, Esqr., who is a
gentleman that has been a long time in India<i', and well
acquainted with the affairs of this country ; and besides he is
civil, good natured, and will undoubtedly make a good
Governour. I wish he may keep the Chair for some time, but
it is strongly reported here that Mr. Sullivan is coming out for
President of this place ....
" The Morattas will, I hope, give us no trouble this year on
account of Madavarave, their Chief, departing this life about
two months ago, and his brother Narranrave being appointed
Chief in his room, and his uncle Rakobah is appointed General
of the Army ; which will take up some time more to settle
their family affairs. . . .
" The Export Warehousekeeper carrys on the Company^s
Investment by employing Gomastas'^' in the weaving towns,
and the goods he provides now is very good and in proper order.
. . . Mr. Samuel Johnson'^' married Miss Law, a lady that came
with Mr. Charles Smith from Pondichery lately ..."
" Chocapah."
[P.S.j— " Poor Mr. Goodlad departed this life the 24th instant."
[Autograph, 1 p., demy.]
[No. 195.]
GooNTOOR Vencata Ramia and Vencata Royloo to the
Hon'ble Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1773, January 31st, Madrass. — Your old servant, Braminy
Goontoor Vencatachelum, is dead, and we his brothers, being
in poor circumstances, beg you to help us to obtain employment
under the Company.
" Goontoor Vencata Ramia
Vencata Royloo."
[1 p., flscp.] ■
[No. 196.]
W[illia]m Petrie to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, January 31st, 3 a.m.. Fort St. George. Received 5th
November. — " My much esteemed and invaluable friend Mr.
Goodlad, after a long and severe illness, which he supported
with the most manly fortitude, bid adieu to this world the 24th
instant. So long ago as . . . -October last he had adopted a
(1) First employed in 1734. ' '
<2) Ooinasta, from Pers. gomashia, an agent. Tlie substitution of perambulating
gomastas for the Company's Merchants was a reform introduced bv Hastines
in 1771. ^
(8) Samuel Johnson, a Madras civil servant of 1754, entered Council twenty years
later. After serving as Chief at Vizagapatam he retired in 1781,
211 [No. 196.
scheme of going to Europe, not so much on the score of health
as to promote a favourite plan which he had before commuiii-
cated to you in his letters. From his masterly abilities and
the strongest testimony in his favour from the Board, his friends
had conceived the most flattering hopes of his success. Soon
after the despatch of the Nottingham he was attacked with
a violent obstruction and inflammation in his liver, which from
the beginning foreboded the most fatal consequences. However,
the disease appeared at one time to take a favourable turn,
and the operation of opening the side was performed about the
beginning of last month with such favourable effects upon his
disorder that the surgeons entertained the most flattering hopes.
By the advice of Mr. Pasley(i) he determined on a voyage to
Europe, and took his passage on the Nassau along with Mr.
Du Pre. The Board gave him the strongest testimony of their
high opinion of his merit and voted him a minute of publick
thanks, besides recommending him in the strongest manner to
the Court of Directors. But, alas, in the midst of our hopes a
general suppuration took place in his liver, attended with a
fever and ague, which put a period to his life on the 24th. The
service, the Settlement, in short the community, mourn his loss
as a servant to the Company, a valuable citizen and an useful
member of society . . .
" Had not our friend been involved in joint concerns his affairs
would have been distinct and his fortune something considerable,
but unfortunately for him and unfortunately for his friends,
his affairs are so blended and involved with Mr. James
Johnson's'^' that I am much afraid heavy losses may be expected."
For years past he has been vainly urging Mr. Johnson to settle
accounts. During our friend's last illness I took every step in
my power, and even threatened Mr. Johnson with a Bill of
Discovery in the Mayor's Court, but Goodlad thought that legal
action would only defeat his object. The executors, Messrs.
Macpherson,<^' De Souza'*' and myself will not therefore
proceed to extremities. " Mr. Johnson is in the capacity of
English accountant with the Nabob, and the world supposes
him in a fair way of making money, so that there may still be
a possibihty of receiving at least a considerable part of the
debt . . . You may collect enough from what I have said to
perceive that a large part of our friend's fortune is in very
indifferent hands.
" The will is unfinished. He leaves his fortune, after the
payment of his debts and certain legacies, to his sister. Here
the will breaks oft without relating the legacies." The amount
due from Mr. Johnson is believed to be between Pags. 15,000
and Pags. 20,000. " To sum up what I have said in a few
(1) Gilbert Pasley. Vide No. 47, p. 73, note 2.
(2) Vide No. 28, p. 45, note 7.
(3) John Macpherson, Vide No. 270, p. 26K, note 2.
(4) Antonio de Souza, free merchant.
No. 196,] 212
words : — ^if we recover from Mr. Johnson the money he owes the
estate of Mr. Goodlad, a considerable balance, I think, will
remain in favour of the estate ; but on the other hand, if we
cannot recover this debt, I am afraid his estate will fall
considerably short."
Shortly before Goodlad's death I handed to Mr. Wynch the
papers relating to your affairs and those of General Lawrence,
together with Pags. 2,800 in cash. The balance due to you is
about Pags. 5,800, and to the General about Pags. 3,800. As
suggested by Goodlad, I shall be pleased to manage your affairs
in India under a power of attorney.
" Upon the resignation of our friend, a young gentleman of
the name of Oakely*" succeeded to the Civil department. He
had been in the office of Deputy Secretary for two years, and
had recommended himself much by his assiduity and promising
abilities. Mr. Stone, who had held his office of Secretary for
several months after he had been taken into Council, had
continued in it during Mr. Goodlad's illness, as Goodlad intended
removing to the Military department ; upon his resignation
Mr. Stone quitted his office, and I was appointed Secretary and
Judge Advocate General.
" The feuds and animosities which have distracted our
Council for some months past seemed to collect and unite all
their force to overwhelm the President on his departure for
Europe. Minutes, dissents and debates of a more violent nature
than ever appeared on the records have been entered in the
course of this month. The majority of the Board removed Sir
Robert Fletcher from his seat by appointing him to the command
of Trichinopoly. He pleaded privilege of parliament, and
demanded a passage on the first ship for Europe. The Board
insisted on obedience to their order : he complied, and proceeded
as far as Cuddalore. The Board having inforced their authority,
they not only admitted his plea, and exonerated him from all
obligation to serve the Company, but also removed him from the
command of the Army, and requested General Smith to resume
the command and his seat in Council, which he accordingly
did . . . The Board met to take leave of the President and sign
the dispatches. But it was decreed that Mr. Du Pre should not
depart in peace. An extraordinary circumstance happened :
the conclusion was the suspension of Mr. Mackay'^) from the
service. The President has been thanked by the Board for his
services to the Company, and embarks to-morrow morning with
his family on the Nassau, and leaves the Government to Mr.
Wynch ....
" These unfortunate animosities have come unseasonably
on a young secretary. The business in the Political and Military
department has of late years been so extensive from our
connections with the country Powers, the frequent wars we have
(1) Afterwards Sir Charles Oakeley, Bt., Governor of Madras, 1792-1794.
12> George Mackay. Vide No. 13, p. 17, note ;i.
213 [No. 196.
waged as principals and as auxiliaries, and the violent attacks
on the Company's rights by the King's Minister, that some
months entirely devoted to studying the records would not have
been too much to qualify me for the office of Secretary. But I
have all at once been hurried into the midst of intricacies and
difficulties ....
" The Carnatick is in profound peace with all her neighbours.
The King of Tanjore, completely humbled by the late siege,
makes daily professions of duty and attachment. General
Smith, before he resigned the command to Sir Robert Fletcher,
subdued the countries of the Great and Little Marawar. Hyder,
yet smarting from his recent losses in the war with the Morattoes,
seems to have adopted a defensive plan, but a mere defensive
plan is not long to be expected from one of his active genius.
The Maharattoes since the death of Mahadevarow seem un-
determined as to any plan of action, and are more engaged in
the contests of parties at home than in designs against the repose
of their neighbours. The squadron is still at Bombay, and is
not expected here till March or April ..."
"Wm. Petkie."
{Holograph, 11 pp., 4io.]
[No. 197.]
Nawab Walajah to General [Stringer] Lawrence.
1773, February 1st, Chepauk, [Madras].—" The Nabob
Waulaujah Bahauder, &c., presents his salams to his friend
General Lawrence, and sends him the inclosed with his wishes
for long life and happiness."
[Autograph cipher, | p., 4io.]
[No. 198.]
George Smith to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, February 1st, Fort St. George. — " Having dechned
(not refused) the execution of the new and extraordinary
covenants sent out by the Company for me as a free merchant
to execute, because I judge it very unsafe to trust my liberty
and property into other hands than my own, lest of their being
abused," I am asking my friends in London to apply to the
Court of Directors for permission for me to remain here long
enough to settle my affairs, that is, for about eighteen months.
I beg your influence in support of my request. The Council
here are friendly, but have resolved " that I am to be laid under
an interdict of trade, the Company's protection to be with-
drawn from me, and to be ordered home in twelve months,
which last is too short a space to wind up my very extensive
concerns, which when I have done, on their present footing
will afford me a genteel and comfortable independency in my
own country north of the Tweed.
No. 198.J 214
" General Smith's resignation of the command of the army,
and his resumption thereof two days ago will surprise you, as
will Mr. Mackay's suspension from the service, which took place
on the same day. Sir Robert Fletcher is left at liberty to attend
his duty in parliament according to his plea . . . Mr. Du Pr6's
conduct in Sir Robert's affairs does him credit, for he has
outwited the Chevaher . . .
" Mrs. Smith, on the first December last, made me the happy
father of a fine Uttle girl."
" George Smith."
[Holograph, 5 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 199.]
Tho[ma]s Palk to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, February 5th, Calcutta. — " We set out to-morrow with
Mrs. Van (meaning my brother and me) for Cossimbazar to
meet Mr. Van, who is coming down in order to be sworn into
Council . . . ."
" Thos. Palk."
[P.S.] — " Mr. Goodlad takes his passage on the Nassau for
England for the recovery of his health ..."
[Holograph, 2| pp., ito.]
[No. 200.J
Roger Darvall(1' to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1773, February 10th, Fort Marlborough [Bencoolen]. — In
consideration of the friendship between you and my late parent,
I beg for your kind notice, as " I am now. Sir, in a situation
that requires the greatest assistance . . . ."
" Roger Darvall."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo. Wax seal, defaced.]
[No. 201. J
Tho[ma]s Palk to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, February 30th [sic], Calcutta. — " I have never but
once ask[ed] for anything in the service, and that was refused
me by your most then intimate friend ; and if those professed
friends shew themselves backward in serving me, what am I to
expect from those who are clear of any such tie ? I am not so
presuming as to ask any thing ; but from Mr. Wynch's readiness
in endeavouring to get me appointed to his Chiefship, I did,
three months ago, write him a letter requesting he would do
something for me, to which I have never yet se^n the least reply,
which not a little astonishes me. That gentleman is now in
the Government, Mr. Du Pre being gone home on the Nassau."
General Smith resigned the army command to Sir Robert
Fletcher in August last, but owing to a difference between Mr.
'D Roger Darvall entered the Madras civil service in 1772. He became Collector
of the Northern Division of the Jaghire in 1794, and was a member of the Board
of Trade from 1798.
215 [No. 201.
Du Pre and Sir Robert, he has consented on public grounds to
resume it. "I learn that General Coote and Mr. Sulivan left
England in August, which, was it true, I think we might have
seen them on the Coast by this time. I shall be happy if those
accounts prove true. I think I may safely depend that he will
do something for me — I mean Mr. S.
"It is with much concern I inform you of the death of Mr.
Goodlad. . . He had been very severely attacked by the liver,
and had been cut for it and got pretty well, when he had
resolved on going to England for a season or two of cold weather.
I have never heard from what cause that he died. I feel for
his poor mother. The young brother Dick has also been on the
point of death. I saw him last night, and he is recovering
fast. I do not imagine Mr. G. died worth much money, as he
was a great lover of claret and every thing that was good.
" I am about thinking of returning to the Coast. I have,
'tis true, little to do there, and less here. My brother might,
if he pleases, assist me greatly, but has not yet shewed any
inclination. He might however, I think, make a better use
of his money. I suppose he spends not less than 4 or £5,000 a
year. He is a lucky fellow."
[Holograph, 4 pp.. Mo.]
Thos. Palk."
[No. 202.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, March 1st, Calcutta. — " I arrived here about a week ago,
and shall begin to write for the Company in one of their offices,
for I have as yet spent my time either at Madras or Patna.
However, I have been idle at neither of them, and my uncle
took particular care that T should find employment at the last.
" You may [have] heard of the death of Mr. Goodlad at
Madras. Indeed his younger brother at Bengal has narrowly
escaped it, and is now obliged to undertake a journey to Dacca
for the effectual recovery of his health.
" Pray remember me kindly to your family, in which I almost
include Mr. R. Boehm.
" Your dutiful nephew, Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo.]
[No. . 203.]
A[nthon]y Goodlad to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, March 2nd, Fort William. — When I wrote my last letter
" I little expected that my next to you would have been upon
so melancholy a subject as the loss of poor Martin, who was
carried off, poor fellow, on the 24th January by a mortification in
his side, to the inexpressible uneasiness of all who were intimately
acquainted with him."
No. 203.] 216
As Mr. Petrie has written to you, I feel sure that you have
done everything possible to alleviate my mother's affliction.
There was so much family money in my brother's hands that
I proposed going down to Madras, but Mr. Hastings refused
permission on the ground that the affairs were already in good
hands. I believe the estate will reahze enough to pay everybody.
I do not think my mother can be in want of money, but should
she be temporarily inconvenienced, I hope you will advance
what may be necessary.
"Ay. W. Goodlad."
[Holograph, 5 pp., 4to.]
[No. 204.]
Chocapah to the Hon'ble . Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, March 10th, Fort St. George. — The Government is
carried on by Mr. Wynch as it was by Mr. Du Pre. There is
no war ; good rain has fallen ; but trade is dull, especially
with Manila. "It is reported here that Mr. James Johnson,
that was under Mr. Bourchier, his affairs is but in a very bad
situation, and that he spent of the Nabob's money thirty four
thousand pagodas, which His Highness was so gracious as to
forgive him so large a sum. Still it is said that he is indebted
to Mr. Bourchier 10,000, to Mr. Jourdan 13,000, to Mr. Goodlad's
estate 16,000, to Nellakontawker 3,500, and to some others
besides ; and that his debt in all will amount to about 60,000
pagodas. He don't know himself what became of so much
money, and can produce no proper account for it neither."
Two years ago Mr. de Souza and sundry others formed an
association to deal in piece-goods. The capital was Pags.
300,000 in 30 shares. It now appears that the shareholders
have not only received no dividends, but will lose one-fourth
of their capital.
Mrs. Wynch, Mr. Quintin Crauford'i) and Sir Robert Fletcher
sail for England in the Triton. Mr. Mackay is suspended, and
Mr. Monckton becomes Assaymaster in his room. I have no
employment at present except " the Arrack and Toddy farm."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, \\ p., flscp.]
[No. 205.]
George Smith to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, March 13th, Fort St.* George.—" Since the Nassau
sailed I have received the orders of the Board to transport
myself, family and effects to Great Britain in twelve months
from the 23rd of February last, at the same time laying me
under an interdiction of trade during that period ; but this
they have removed on the remonstrance of Andrew Ross*^) and
'D Quintin Crauford was a Madras civil servant of 1761.
(2) Andrew Rosa. Vide No, 28, p. 46, note 1.
217 [No. 205.
myself, so I have no complaint to make. Inclosed I send you
a copy of my letter to the Board, of which I hope you will
approve. I have been moderate and honest in my reasons for
not executing the new covenants, and I hope all honest men
will approve of my reasons. All I want from the Company
is time to settle and collect my affairs, which I hope to do by
June, 1774, when I purpose going by the way of China for the
conveniency of remitting my money there, and for the better
accommodation of myself and family ; and I hope. Sir, that you
will do me the favor to use your influence with your friends in
the Direction to obtain my request, for I do not chuse to
embarass my friends here by asking them to do what may be
contrary to their orders.
" You will have heard from others, I doubt not, of Sir Robert
Fletcher's behaviour and of Mr. Mackay's. This last must
hurt himself, in the opinion of his friends, by his information
against Mr. Stracey,(i> it having so much the appearance of
resentment ... I am sorry to see so many discords among us,
but I steer clear of all of them . . ."
[Holograph, 3 pp., flscp.] " George Smith."
[Enclosure] — To the Hon'ble Alexander Wynch, Esqr.,
President and Governor, &c. Council of Fort St. George.
Dated 6th March, 1773.
I have received your Secretary's letter of the 23rd ultimo,
requiring me to leave for Great Britain within twelve months
unless I sign a new covenant. As your order casts a slur upon
me, permit me to speak in my own vindication. I am already
under a covenant with the Company, which I have not infringed.
The new covenant renders me liable to the surrender of my
personal liberty and property, and of the protection of the laws
of my country — conditions to which I cannot subscribe. As
" one of the Judges of his Majesty's Court of Record at this
place," I cannot relinquish the independence so essential to a
judge and magistrate. As I am already settling my affairs,
the execution of a new covenant appears to be unnecessary ;
but since interdiction of trade wiU interfere with the winding
up, I trust you will see fit to remove it.
" Permit me to add a short account of myself since my
comming to India. Soon after my arrival at Madrass I went
to China, where I resided some years ... I left that country
to my very great detriment in obedience to the Company's
orders. The Company, sensible of the injury done to me by
ordering me to leave China, permitted me in the year 1765 to
return to that country, and gave me three years to settle my
affairs there, but the engagements I had entered into here
previous to the receipt of that permission prevented my making
use of it then ; but it being still in force, I purpose benefiting of
(1! Edward Stracey. Vide No. 25, p. 4,2, note 2.
No. 205.] 218
the Company's indulgence to me as soon as my affairs here are
adjusted, having large concerns in China unsettled, which may
render my presence in that country necessary . . ."
" (Signed) George Smith."
[Copy, 8 pp., flscp.]
[No. 206.]
MuDOO KisTNA'i) to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, March 14th, Fort St. George. — " Since Mr. Dupre
embarked . . Mr. Wynch governs in the place, assisted by
his Counsellors, especially by Messrs. Stone and Stracey. The
Nabob fixed his residence firmly at Chepauck'^' near the
Company's Gardenhouse,'^' and does not seem to remove to
his own city of Arcot and Tirchinopoly. The country is in
peace and tranquility at present, excepting the Marava and
Naulcooty's**' country, which was lately taken by the Nabob,
and for that reason the Kellery(^' inhabitants of that country
(who were attached to their old sovereigns) are raising rebellions
in the said countries ; but Colonel Bonjour,<^' jointly with the
Nabob's son, is exerting himself there to suppress the same . . ."
" MuDOO KiSTNA."
[Autograph, 1\ p., flscp.]
[No. 207.]
Tho[ma]s Palk, to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1773, March 22nd, Calcutta. — Since I last wrote, I have been
appointed by Mr. Wynch to Masulipatam in preference to
several senior applicants. I am just starting for Madras, so
cannot seek a passage direct to Masulipatam.
" It was Captain Madge that wrote me of this appointment.
He writes to my brother also, proposing a most noble and
generous scheme ; that they do in conjunction lend me a sum
of Rs. 15,000 ; that my brother contributes 6 or 8,000 of it,
and he will do the rest ; that I shall enter into a partnership
with Mr. Burton, a gentleman you know at Masulipatam, who
has had a deal of experience in the world . . . What my brother
intends to do I know not ; but this I know, that he can well
afford it, and that he makes much worse use of his money than
he would by setting me out in the world. I shall have the
(1) Mudoo Kistna (Muttukrishna Mudali). Vide No. 70, p. 97, note 1.
(2) In 1767 the Nawab acquired a house and land at the fishing village of
Chepauk, one mile south of Port St. George, and built a palace. The area enclosed
measured 117 acres. The palace is now used as Government offices.
(8) The Company's Garden-house near Chepauk, one mile south-west of the Fort,
replaced an earlier building in Peddanaikpetta which was destroyed by the French
diiring their occupation of 1746-49. The new house was acquired in 1753, and it
became the suburban residence of the Governor. Enlarged and extended, it is now
Government House.
(*) The Nalkottai Poligar. Vide No. 176, p. 194, note 3.
(6) Kellery (Kallar). Vide No. 175, p. 194, note 1.
(8) Colonel Abraham Bonjour. Vide No. 30, p. 50, note 2.
219 [No. 207.
greatest opportunities of making money now, provided this
scheme of my friend Madge's takes. I cannot conceive that
he can give any justifiable reasons for his not agreeing in it ;
but this I shall insist upon, that he gives no reasons to Madge
that may in any means whatever prevent him from lending
me any money. The amount of this is yet to be determined,
and of which I shall not have an opportunity of communicating
to you till October next . . . Thos. Palk."
[Holograph, 3 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 208.]
1773, March 28th [Calcutta.] — Letter of Attorney from
RoBEET Palk, of Calcutta, constituting Robert Palk, of
London, his Attorney. Signed by Robert Palk, of Calcutta,
in the presence of Henry Vansittart and Richard Kennaway.
[2 pp., flscp. Wax seal bearing the words " Robert Palk " in
Persian characters.]
[No. 209.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, April 1st, Calcutta. — " I lived in the same family with
your two nephews and Mr. Kennaway'^* for some time, but Mr.
Thomas Palk left us last week and proceeded on his voyage to
Madras. Mr. Thomas Stonhouse'^' (Mrs. Van's brother) went
away at the same time ... I have not yet entered upon the
business of the Persian Translator's office, but shall begin
immediately after the dispatch of the Hector. I shall profit
more by all accounts in that office than I could possibly in
any other . . . Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, 2 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 210.]
Warren Hastings to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, April 3rd, Fort William. — " Dear Sir, I request the
favor of your care of the accompanying letters. That to Mr.
Du Pre I have troubled you with because I am uncertain of his
address ; the others, one for Mr. Sulivan and one for Mr.
Bolton,'^' I have sent under fljang seals for your perusal. I
have not time to address you as I could wish, a declaration
which I am sure your kindness will admit as a full excuse.
" Harry Vansittart has just sent me a history of the
Seneassies,'*) which I enclose with this. Perhaps it may amuse
you, and you may probably consider it as a curiosity when I
(1) Richard Kennaway. Vide No. 153, p. 171, note 4.
(2) Vide No. 72, p. 100, note 2.
(3) Henry Crabb Boulton. Vide No. 88, p. 117, note 2.
(*) The Sanyasis, figuring as religious devotees, formed themselves into rovirig
robber bands, each of several thousand men. They gave much trouble during
Hastings's first year in Bengal, and native regiments were employed to hunt them
down.
No. 210.] 220
acquaint you that it was but yesterday morning (noon) I gave
him the original to be translated. The subject is important to
us, though to you it may appear trifling, for they are the people
who have lately given us so much trouble by their incursions,
and have obhged us to employ a considerable force to drive
them out of these provinces.
" I beg my compliments may be made to Mrs. Palk, the
General and all friends.
" I am, with a most sincere regard, dear Sir, your most
obedient and humble servant,
"Warren Hastings."
" P.S. — The letter to Mr. Du Pre and that to Mr. Sulivan,
together with the history of the Seneassies are by mistake under
another cover to you."
[Holograph, 2\ pp.. Mo.]
[No. 211.J
Mrs. Eleanor Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place,
London.
1773, May 14th, Tavistock. — Sends statement of account, as
received from Robert Palk of Bengal, of the balance due to the
estate of Captain Adams.d' Current Rs. 7,134. 15 as. to be paid
at 2s. 2\d. per rupee.
[1 p., Mo.]
[No. 212.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, July 7th, Fort St. George. — I duly received your letter
of the 17th November, 1772. Your proposal to invest my
remittance in the Funds I entirely approve. Mr. Hill and Mr.
Ley brought me your letters of introduction, and I have tried
to be of service to them. Both gentlemen will now proceed
in their respective ships to China.
" Reyno. Adams."
[P.S.] — " 22nd July. The Bridgwater is just arrived, all well
on board, and I am going off this afternoon to bring Miss
Vansittart'2' ashore, who is to be with Mrs. Hopkins.*^' . . ."
" Reyno. Adams."
[No. 213.]
Extract from a Letter from George Vansittart to his Attorneys
in England.
1773, October 9th, Calcutta. — " I have a plan of remittance,
which it is necessary should be insured. I will give you as
particular an account of it as I can, and leave you to manage
(1) John Adams entered the Bengal Engineers in 1761, and became Oapt.-
Lieut. two years later.
(2) Bmelia, sister of Henry Vansittart, jvm.
(3) Phyllis Hopkins, widow of Charles Hopkins who was Chief at Devikota in
1754. A seafaring man from 1730 or earlier, Hopkins was admitted to the Madras
civil service in 1750. He married Phyllis Bright in 1736 and died at Madras in
1757. Mrs. Hopkins sailed for England in 1775.
221 [No. 213.
the insurance so as to afford no room for quibbles hereafter.
Mr. Law, Mr. Palk and myself have purchased for 30,000
rupees a ship formerly called the Madras Merchant, but now
named the Sarah. She is to sail from Calcutta about the 1st
of December laden with 4 or 500 chests of ophium, of which
it is intended that part should be sold at the different islands
to the eastward where the Captain may judge it advisable to
touch, and the rest at China. She is to be commanded by
Captain Shaw, who has already twice performed the same
voyage with safety."
Remittances will be made to you from Bencoolen or Batavia
and from China as the cargo is disposed of. The value of ship
and cargo is estimated at £24,000 from Calcutta to China and
£10,000 from China to Calcutta, and these are the sums to be
insured. The Captain expects to reach China by August, 1774,
and to be back in Calcutta by August, 1775. The insurance
should extend to every place within the Company's limits.
" Here, where insuring is in general much dearer than in England,
we could procure an insurance for 12 per cent, to China, but
this would not answer our purpose of securing, at all events, a
remittance to England . . . The proportions of the concern
are : — on my account, one half ; on Mr. Robert Palk's, one
fourth ; on Mr. Ewan Law's, one fourth. Do you be kind
enough to insure the whole ..."
[4 pp., Uo.]
[No. 214.J
Ja[me]s Daniell to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, October 13th, Fort St. George.— In my letter of the
18th January*!' j mentioned Sir Robert Fletcher's contest with
the Board. " Little did I then imagine I should so soon have
occasion to tell you that I likewise have most materially suffered
from the exertion of my duty. Mr. Turing'^) and myself have
been called from our stations at Cuddalore from a desire of
forwarding the Company's Investment at that Factory. From
a perusal of the accompanying minutes you will find the truth
of my assertion, and though the Governor and Council have
been pleased to adopt another pretence for removing us, it
cannot alter facts so demonstratively pointed that there remains
not a single doubt to oppose them."
We are sending copies of the papers to our friends, so that
the Court of Directors may not be prejudiced in their opinion,
and I hope for your support against any injurious orders from
the Court.
" Jas. Daniell."
[Holograph, 5 pp., 4<to.]
(1) An error for 28th January. Vide No. 193, p. 208.
(2) John Turing, a civil servant of 1762. He married in 1773 Mary, daughter of
Dr. Bobert Turing.
222
[No. 215.]
A[nthon]y Goodlad to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, October 20th, Purnea in Bengal. — Your letters of the
9th and 14th April addressed to poor Martin have been delivered
to me. I realize your friendship for my family, and trust that
you will extend the same favour to his surviving brothers which
you always showed to Martin.
The disputes between the Government and the Company
in England cause disquietude in India. Some definite plan of
reform is urgently needed. " Mr. Hastings has been
indefatigable in his assiduity and attention to the dutys of
his station, but he must have friends to support his measures
at home to make them meet with the approbation of the
publick ; and the unfortunate event of Mr. Sullivan and his
friends being thrown out of the Direction gives me too
much reason to apprehend that his plans may meet with
disapprobation. I, however, hope for the best, for as I have
enjoyed the honor of his confidence, and experienced instances
of his friendship, I cannot be otherwise than interested in his
success, and ardent in my wishes for his benefit. He has lately
been up the country, and settled a new treaty with Soujah
Dowlah, but as I cannot acquaint you with the particulars of it
so fully and explicitly as Mr. Van'i), who was on the spot, I
shall leave him to relate the matter to you ..."
After six years of arduous work in the Persian Translator's
office I was transferred last year at my own request to the
comparative retirement of the Purnea collectorship, where my
brother Dick is my assistant. My prospects, however, are not
too favourable. " I thank God I am honoured with the friend-
ship and good opinion of the Governor and Mr. Van, and am
sensible that they will assist me whilst they continue in the
country ; but, as I look upon Mr. Hastings's situation as
precarious, and that there is little dependance to be placed in
these times upon a man's holding a station which is so much
the envy of half the world, I shall be obliged to you by
confirming my connection with Mr. Van (which is already on a
proper footing) by urging every thing on your part which you
may deem me worthy of . . . "
Mr. Petrie at Madras has succeeded beyond my expectations
in the settlement of my brother's affairs. I think there will
be enough to pay everybody, though I have little hope that
Johnson will meet his debt.
[Holograph, 4-|- pp., flscp.] " Ay. W. Goodlad."
[No. 216.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, October 25th, Fort St. George.—" My last went by
Mr. Ley by the way of China, since which nothing material has
(1) George Vansittart.
223 [No. 216.
happened here but the taking of Tan jour, which lately fell into
our hands and is garrisoned by the Nabob. The captive King
is sent to Trichenopoly.
" It is with great concern I acquaint you that this last
expedition will, I fear, prove fatal to poor Major Madge. He has
long been much out of order while he stayed to the northward,
and not recovered when he went to the siege of Tanjour, where,
contrary to the advice of his friends, he ventured in the trenches
before his health was established. This brought on a relapse
and a dangerous illness, so that he was advised to go to
Cuddalore. About ten days agg he arrived at my house'i',
where he stayed three or four days, as he allways lives with
me when at Madras. But as a cooler apartment was recom-
mended for him, the Governor has given him a room at the
Admiralty'^'. Mr. Paissley'^' attends him, but he seems loth
as yet to give his opinion about him. It's said, however, that
he is not worse than when he first arrived. He is very low-
spirited, and thinks himself that he cannot live many days ..."
" Reyno. Adams."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4fo.]
[No. 217.]
Edward Cotsfokd(*' to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773, October 29th, Madrass. — About a year ago I gave you
some account of my work, in which I believe you are interested,
as it was you who conferred on me the management of the
Ganjam territory. " In all probability it will become a Settle-
ment of importance, it being an establishment in the heart of a
country which, from the quantity of grain exported from thence
to the Presidency, may be considered as its granary ; and
indeed the amazing opulence of Madrass within these three
years makes such an one almost absolutely necessary. The
money received from Ganjam annually amounts to upwards
of 150,000 rupees over and above maintaining near two battalions
of seapoys for the protection of the country (now ind[e]ed
quiet), and also, if necessary, to keep peace in the southern
provinces of the Cicacole Circar.
" You doubtless will learn from other hands of the success
of his Highness the Nabob against Tanjore. The reduction of
that province may, I suppose, in general be considered in a
considerable degree as advantageous to our nation. The Nabob
is so connected with the English that, if the Government here
be prudently administered, it will be very difficult for him to
effect any considerable change ; but nevertheless the extra-
ID Adams rented a house in the Fort from Palk.
(2) Admiralty House in Charles Street, Port St. George, was so called as early as
1758. It had been acquired by the Company a few years before, and it ultimately
became the town residence of the Governor. The house, which is now the ofBce
of the Accountant-General, was rented by CUve in 1752-53.
(3) Surgeon Gilbert Pasley. Vide No. 47, p. 73, note 2.
(*) Vide No. 183, p. 199, note 1.
No. 217.] 224
ordinary strides he has lately made towards a formidable
independency ought to be considered by us as most certainly
tending in the end to that degree of subordination we were
necessarily obliged to submit to under the government of the
Mohammedans in former times. The last siege of Tanjour has
been attended with a circumstance which may by and bye be
attended with serious consequences. The deposed Rajah,
finding himself in a desperate situation, made over to the Dutch
a grant of Nagore (a seaport) and some other districts on the sea
coast for a valuable consideration in money. The lands are in
value, I think, about four lacks of pagodas. The Nabob
considered this act in the King of Tanjore (according [to] the
feudal system of the government) as unwarrantable, and
accordingly demanded the assistance of the Company to assist
his troops in the recovery of the alienated lands. The Governor
and Council .... determined on assisting him against the
Dutch, in which opinion they were strengthened by the
concurrence of Sir Robert Harland, the King's Minister. The
Dutch are accordingly driven out of their new acquisition, and
have made a protest in form to General Smith, which is signed
by their whole Council. The recovery of the lands for the
Nabob is but a trifle I think, as the Dutch have not withdrawn
their claim, and are strengthening their fortress, which, if
perfect, would doubtless be held as a strong fortification even
in Europe ; and they are collecting all the troops they can draw
from Ceylon, and doubtless will have a reinforcement from
Batavia as early as the season will permit. I think it is probable
the Dutch government at Batavia have taken into consideration
the practicability of such measures as might lead to their
procuring some territorial possessions on the coast of Chormandell
ever since the first siege of Tanjore. If so, there is no saying at
present what revolutions may be brought about by their
interfering with the Marattas or any other Powers. I think
it is remarked of the Dutch that they are wise in their delibera-
tions and persevering in their conduct."
As the attack of Tanjore may have serious consequences, I
am surprised that the Governor and Council do not garrison
the place with Company's troops. The interference of the
King's Minister ought not to force the Board to any policy
detrimental to the Company.
" There is still another measure which I shall take leave to
say may in the end be of great detriment to the Company — I
mean the bargaining with individuals beforehand (a committee
of officers) for the services to be rendered by them to take the
Fort for a certain sum of money to be payed them in lieu of
plunder ; 2,000 pagodas to each captain, and so in proportion
to the rest of the army. Officers and men doing their duty
under such a condition never consider themselves any other
way than as conferring a favour on the Nabob who employs
them ; and indeed the impropriety has already appeared, it
225 [No, 217
having been reported here that the officers might probably
refuse to act against the Dutch, as that did not appear to come
within their agreement with the Nabob. It opens a road for
the Nabob to have great influence over our troops, and has many-
other disadvantages . . .
" I arrived here from Ganjam in the beginning of this month
in order to proceed to England, but by the loss of the Lord
Mansfield I have been disappointed. However, I hope to make
my acknowledgments to you in person about the middle of the
next summer . . ."
" Edwaed Cotsfoed."
[P.S.] — " As I have not time to make a copy, I hope you will
excuse all errors and blots."
[Holograph, 4- pp., demy.]
[No, 218,]
John d'Feies to Robeet Palk, Esqr.
1773, October 29th, Fort St. George. — The Nawab has given
an order on the Tinnevelly Renter for Pags. 36,960j, payable
by instalments between November and April next, on account
of the estate of the late Mr. Vansittart. The order has been
sent to Captain Cooke'^* at Palamcotta so that he may receive
the sums as they fall due. I have settled your own account
with Mr. Morse in the Nawab's bond, and handed a statement
to Mr. Stone.
[Holograph, IJ pp., 4to.] " John d'Feies."
[No. 219.]
Chocapah to the Honble Robeet Palk, Esqr.
1773, October 29th, Fort St. George. — The French received
this year three King's ships and eight merchantmen, bringing
goods, specie and 100 soldiers. M. Law is governor general
and commander-in-chief, and a M. Fochon'^' has been sent out
as superintendent to settle affairs. The latter has discharged
all the Company's civil servants, including those in council.
M. Law and he rule Pondicherry for the King, and it is said
that there will be no Company in future.
" Our army under the command of General Smith, together
with the Nabob's forces under command of the Nabob's second
son Maddor Ulmoolk,*^' laid siege to Tan j ore in August last.
After seven weeks they conquired that place on the 17th
September. The King was taken prisoner, and remains there
to this day. It is said the Nabob promised to treat him with
all the respect imaginable and maintain his expences."
[Autograph, IJ p., demy.] " Chocapah."
(1) Apparently Captain 'William Cooke, who hod served in the first Mysore war.
(2) Or Foucault. Cf. No. 230, p. 235.
(3) Amir-ul-TJmara.
226
[No. 220,]
Robert Palk, jun., to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1773j November 3rd, Calcutta. — Thanks to your influence,
the order which removed me from Patna last year has been
revoked by the Company, and I am now about to return thither.
" Mr. Hastings has been very kind to me on all occasions, and
on the present has shown himself particularly so by his readiness
to send me back to Patna. Mr. Aldersey has given me many
proofs lately of his inclination to promote my interest."
There has been lack of rain, and the price of rice has advanced
from 40 to 25 seers'^' per "rupee. The export of grain is con-
sequently prohibited. The Renters have lost heavily on their
farms. Politically the country is quiet.
" You will hear of Miss Van from George and others . . The
early introduction she had into company in England has nearly
disqualified her for India. At present we Indians in her eyes
are but contemptible beings. However, she is upon the whole
a very worthy good young woman, and I hope will be much
esteemed and very happy in this country. Harry Van and the
Kennaways are well."
I enclose two interest bonds from Dr. James Ellis, payable
in 1775 ; one on your account for £2,880, being the balance
of your money in my hands ; the other for £3,896 on my own
account, which sum is to be invested at your discretion. George
considers interest bonds a safer mode of remittance than bills.
" Robert Palk, jun."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4fo.]
[Enclosure]
(1) Company's order of revocation, 7th April, 1773.
(2) Robert Palk's letter to the Governor and Council of
Bengal, 21st Oct., 1773.
(3) Governor and Council's order of restoration, 21st
October, 1778.
[Copies, 1 p., Mo.]
[No. 221.]
Hen[ry] Griffiths to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, November 10th, Calcutta.— In my last letter I
mentioned the kind proposal of Mr. Hastings that I should
accompany him to Bengal. By Mr. Stone's advice I did not
immediately accept; but Mr. Hastings has used his interest
in England and now leads me to expect that I shall shortly
obtain a nomination to the Bengal establishment. My brother
William has arrived with Captain Mears, and is about to join
his corps. He and I are both grateful to you for your kind
exertions on his behalf.
[Holograph, 2| pp., 4to.] "Hen. Griffiths."
'1' Seer, about 3 lb, weight.
227
[No. 222,]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1773, November 11th, Calcutta. — " I have received your
letter of the 10th February, and have heard the news from
Emelia, Uncle George and Mr. Palk. I think Emelia much
taller than when I left England, and I may add improved, if
I do not offend against delicacy by speaking in praise of her.
She was much disappointed at the news she heard at Madras,
but I hope she is now very well reconciled to her situation at
Bengal.
" My uncle's interest has procured me the post of Persian
Translator to the Calcutta Revenue Committee, which is the
beginning of my rise, and will give me practise in Persian.
" Your nephew set off for Patna 3 or 4 days ago, very happy
at his appointment ... I shall be obliged to you if you will
direct the inclosed letter to Mr. Tripe, (i) as I value my school
acquaintance. I beg you will give my duty to Mrs. Palk, and
my love to Nancy, Lawrence and Kitty. I have heard the
history of them from my sister."
" Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4to.]
[No. 223.]
Warren Hastings to R[obert] Palk, Esqr.
1773, November 14th, Fort William.—" Dear Sir, Our friend
George has kindly taken out of my hands every subject which
I. could write to you upon, and as I consider our correspondence
as resting on a principle superior to the forms of compliment,
I hope you will allow his letters to pass as mine. You will find
nothing, I believe, in his sentiments differing from my own.
I have a pleasure in acknowledging to you the benefits and
satisfaction which I derive from his friendship.
" I beg leave to repeat my request that Mr. Sulivan and Mr.
Du Pre may see the papers which you will receive from George
containing the particulars of the late treaty'^) at Benaris. The
General'^) has had the last word, but I still think his arguments
stand as they did, and (if I may be the judge) plainly refuted.
" The first payment of the treaty money has been some time
paid to Mr. Lambert**', whom I left with the Vizier to receive
it, and is by this time on the way down. I beg your attention
to a remark which you will find somewhere in the papers which
are now going to you, that the addition of so much ready money
to the exhausted currency of the country is a profit scarce less
(1) Nicholas Tripe, son of Dr. Tripe of Ashburton. Cf. No. 162., p. ISO, note 3.
(2) The Treaty negotiated at Benares in 1773 between Hastings and Shuja-ud-
daula, by which the districts of Kora and Allahabad were ceded to the Nawab
Vizier for 50 lakhs, the British engaging to aid him in the conquest of RohiJkhand
on payment of expenses.
(3) Sir Robert Barker.
(4) William Lambert, a member of the Bengal Council,
No. 223] 228
than the addition of so much to the weak Treasury of the
Company.
" I have referred General Caillaud to you for the particulars
of Bengal inteUigence, and beg that he too may see these papers.
There are indeed some anti-mihtary passages which may not
suit his ideas, but in truth our connection with the Vizier till
now rested wholly with the military commander. In all other
points I have endeavoured to conduct myself with such equality
between the civil and military corps that I beheve I can safely
say that I have not even a biass to either ; and in my conferences
with the Vizier I took pains to give a consequence to the General,
although I took care to let the Vizier know that his dependence
was on the Governor alone. In this I surely acted with
propriety. The Governor only is charged with a separate
responsibility, and ought to guide the measures for which he
is responsible.
" Enclosed I send you a paper, which has been drawn up
by a young gentleman of my family, containing an abstract of
the arrangements which have taken place in the Revenue
department. It may give a competent idea of what has been
done, but over rates, perhaps, the advantages which are likely
to be derived from it.
" I beg to be kindly remembered to Mrs. Palk, the General,
and all friends.
" I am, with the sincerest regard and esteem, dear Sir, your
obedient and faithful servant,
" Waeren Hastings."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Uo.]
[No. 224.]
[Robert Palk to Thomas Palk].
N.D. [cir. 1773.] — " Dear Tom, I have this year received
from you many letters, and none of them have given me pleasure.
I have provided, or endeavoured to provide, for many young
men, and you are among those who seem to me least of all
to deserve it ; for if I can guess from your correspondence,
inconsiderate and vacant as it is, you have not only neglected
your own improvement and the duty, attention, industry and
diligence you owe the Company and your own character, but
have given yourself most entirely to idleness, extravagance
and folly very unbecoming your situation and circumstances,
who have nothing to depend on but your own merit and the
qualifying yourself for those offices which hereafter may fall to
your share if your unworthiness does not prevent it. I pass over
your hesitating between military and civil, though a young man
who, having had some pains taken with his education, might
at least have learnt patiently and chearfully to submit to what
his parents so much wished and had thought best for him.
" In short, I cannot observe in your letters or your conduct
one generous sentiment which can give me a prospect of your
229 [No. 224
future success and well doing. Character and a virtuous
emulation after reputation and a good name seem to make
no part of your pursuit, and provided you can support your
illjudged extravagance, no matter from whence it comes. You
are descended, if not from very opulent, at least very honest
and worthy ancestors. Your father,'^* though distressed
beyond measure in his younger years, preferred an honest and
virtuous reputation. Your grandfather*^) lives in the friendship
and esteem of all that knew him, and the same have I heard of his
father(3> ; and yet they had not those advantages in their
youth which (happily we hoped) have fallen to your share.
But the dawn of your reason seems not to have been exercised
in preserving yourself from ignorance, or accustoming yourself
to good habits, or reconciling to yourself the good will and
kindness of those with whom you must have an intercourse.
You unfortunately have judged that attention and provision
is due to you, merit out of the question. It is painful to me
to write such a letter, and it ought to be more so [to] you for
having made it necessary. I shall mention no particulars of
your idle and unthinking conduct : your own memory will
serve sufficiently to recollect them. Only imagine to yourself
that I am well acquainted with what you would most wish to
conceal, and try to retrieve all this by adopting a little more
morality into your conduct. Forget not your Creator in the
days of your youth, and learn to "live on your own allowances
without pitifully running in debt with every man you meet
or have the least connection with. The allowance I gave you
was amply sufficient had you lived in the Fort as you ought to
have done, and looked on yourself only as a servant to the
Company, from whom only you were to expect the encourage-
ment that was due to diligence and merit."
[Unsigned draft]
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4to.]
[No. 225.]
George Vansittart to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1774, January 1st, Calcutta.^" Dear Palk, This will be
delivered to you by Captain Duff,'*' who, I believe, was formerly
recommended by you to my brother. The state of his health
obliges him to go home, but he means to return to Bengal, and
hopes to recover the rank of which he was deprived in '66 in
consequence of false representations made against him. He
will himself acquaint you with the particulars, and I am sure
(1) Walter Palk, elder brother of Governor Palk, 6. 1714, d. 1801.
(2) Walter Palk, father of Governor Palk, 6. 1686.
(3) Walter Palk, grandfather of Governor Palk, 6. 1659, d. 1706.
(*) Captain Patrick Duff, Bengal Engineers, had been involved in the combination
of officers of 1766, but his supersession- by two other captains was unconnected with
his action at that time. It was the result of promotions which had been made
locally without regard to the seniority determined by the Company's original
appointments. {Bengal Pub. Proceedings, 14th June, 1773.)
No. 225.] 230
he will do so without the smallest partiality. We have recom-
mended him very strongly to the Court of Directors in our
general letter, and I shall be really obliged to you if you will
give him all the support in your power. He has every right
to the Company's favour which can be derived from long and
distinguished services, from being wounded in their service,
and from an universal good character both in his military and
private capacity. Yours affectionately,
[Holograph, If p., 4to.] " George Vansittart."
[No. 226.]
Colonel Gilbert Ironside to Rob[er]t Palk, Esq.
1774, January 15th, The Grove, near Fort William. — " Some
time in October last, soon after her arrival, Mrs. Ironside did
herself the pleasure to acquaint Mrs. H. Vansittart of the health
and safety of her daughter*^' after a short and not altogether
an unpleasant passage. Mrs. Ironside brought with her a
greater share of health than she possessed for some years before,
and bids fair, thank heaven ! to preserve it.
" About two months ago Mr. Palk was restored to his seat
at the Board of Revenue at Patna, which is looked upon to be
a certain and considerable fortune in the space of a few years . . .
" From Mr. Hastings I never entertained any very ardent
expectations of assistance, and it is probable I shall see his
entrance and exit with little benefit either to my fortune or
preferment.
" Dulcis inexpertis (says our friend Horace) cultura potentis
amid,
" Expertus metuit ;
and as I am of this veteran class, I am not likely to succeed at
Court. The unlucky line I am in is a material obstacle besides
to my independance, exclusive of the mean talents I have
in repetundis, and in the dexterities of political commerce."
For a sketch .of our transactions here, please refer to General
Caillaud, to whom I have described them. I have paid to Mr.
Samuel Beardmore'^' the £100 for which you gave him an order
on me in 1772, as he is likely to be long a cadet, and is in need
of money. In return he has handed me a bill on you, which
will be presented by my attorney. Major Grant.
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4io.] " Gilbert Ironside."
[No. 227.]
Robert Palk, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esqr.J.
1774, January 16th, Patna. " I left Calcutta the 9th
November, and arrived at this Factory the 20th ; distance
about 400 miles . . . Enclosed I send you a draft on Mr.
<1' Emelia Vansittart, jun.
(2) Samuel Beardmore, a Bengal cadet of 1772, did not obtain hia ensigucy
until 1776. He died three years later.
231 [No. 227.
Kennaway'i: for a further sum advanced his sons . . . Captain
Skottowe undertook the care of a box for you, which I expect
you will say contains a monument of my folly. If it should
not prove acceptable at Haldon House, I daresay it will be very
much so at YoUand Hill.*^) Mrs. Van'^) undertook to forward
two or three small parcels for me, directed to you, but
containing pieces of muslin, shawls, &c., for my friends at
Ashburton ; but by whom she has sent them I know not . . .
In addition to the silk stockings I requested you would cause
to be sent out annually, I shall be obliged to you if you will add
the following : — 2 black and 1 white hat, 6| in. diameter, 1 pair
boots and 6 pairs shoes ... I shall also be glad of a large
alarm watch or small clock of that kind, and a small light royal
hunting saddle, red leather and quilted seat, with light furniture
for the hind part only . . .
" We have no appearance of any disturbance in the country.
Shuja Dowla has paid twenty lacks of the sum he was to give
the Company for Corah and Illiabad'*' by the Governor's treaty.
Mr. Hastings goes on with great spirit reducing the Company's
expences, civil and military, but I do not think it possible for
the revenues to be increased. The attempt of it has been the
error of our Government ever since Lord Clive obtained the
Dewanny for the Company. . . The whole of the provinces
have suffered greatly this last season by a heavy fall of water
in the month of September, which overflowed the whole country,
destroyed not even [?only] the grain, but carried away many
villages and destroyed the cattle . . . Since that time we have
had a remarkable drought, so much so as to alarm the natives
with the fear of another famine. A stop was put to the
exportation of grain . . ."
The Collectors are recalled throughout the provinces, and
Revenue or Provincial Councils take their place. I enclose the
regulations on the subject, from which you will see that the
Company's servants generally are much restricted as to trade.
" This Factory is most materially hurt, for in order to grant an
allowance of 3,000 Rs. per month to the Member of adminis-
tration without taking it immediately from the Company, they
have claimed in the Company's name all the opium produced
in this province, hitherto the particular advantage of the
gentlemen at this Factory, which will be about equal to the
above allowance. This is a severe loss to all us Patna folks,
for there is no one article of trade left us but salt and Europe
articles, which barely bring us the full interest of our money.
This misfortune make[s] me feel the ill luck I was in by my
(1) William Kennaway, of Exeter.
(2) Yolland Hill, by Ashburton, the home of Walter Palk.
(3' Mrs. George Vansittart.
(4) The provinces of Kora and Allahabad, which had been assigned to the titular
Emperor Shah Alam for his maintenance, were taken from him when he placed him-
self in the hands of the Marathas, By the Treaty of Benares they were ceded to
the Nawab Vizier.
No. 227] 232
removal in 1772, for had I staid here to this time, I should in all
probability have it in my power to take leave of India, and
avoided some misfortunes I have experienced. However, as
I am not ambitious, a small matter will satisfy me. I therefore
hope it will not be long before I see old England — some time
between this and 1780. We hear Lord Pigot is coming out on
the Eagle with his new plan of government. Also that Lord
Clive has been killed by a young nobleman whose name is not
mentioned, nor the cause of their disagreement.
" I am concerned to mention the loss of my worthy friend
Madge. He died at Madras the 8th November last. He estimated
his fortune in his will to be about seven thousand pounds, Mr.
Baker writes me, which for the most part he has left to his family.
" My brother is at Masuhpatam, and much pains T have taken
to correct his errors and advise him to the best of my judgement ;
but whether it will be of service to him or not I can't determine.
I have said and done all in my power, and added 4,000 Rs.
within these few days to 12,000 which he has already had and,
I fear, spent. I have little expectation of seeing my money
again. It will, however, be some satisfaction to me if it saves
him from ruin. I do not wish you to say any thing to him on
this subject. I have already said so much as to make him
express himself very unguardedly in his replies to my letters
of advice. He is yet young enough to reform.
" Mr. Petre<i) has been tried for the murder of Mr. Rochfordf^)
and acquitted, and is already by his countrymen's influence
promoted to a good employ, whilst his seniors in the service
are out of employ and in want. He renewed his application
to George for permission to marry Emelia. George declared
he never would agree to it. He then proposed that George
should admit of their waiting till such time as he (Petre) could
write to Mrs. H. Van on the subject. To this George did not
object, and Petre accordingly addressed Emelia on the subject.
She mustered up a little resolution, seeing how disagreeable
it was to her uncle, and gave her lover a positive refusal ; so
I hope that connexion will never be renewed.
" The young Kennaways are very well. Dick is with George,
and makes himself usefull. Jack was left behind at this place
when the brigade marched down to the Presidency, very sick ;
for some time dangerously so. I have made a stout man of him
again by good nursing, and have just sent him down to join
his brigade ...
" General Sir Robert Barker is gone home, and the command
of the army has in consequence devolved on Colonel Chapman,*^'
who is grown old and very unequal to the task. The old
gentleman has been remarkably attached to gaming till within
<1) Probably John Petrie of the civil service, who was a Writer in 1773.
i2) George Rochford, appointed Writer in April, 1773, was buried at Calcutta
on the 7th September oJ the same year.
(3) Colonel Charles Chapman held the command from December, 1773, to
January, 1774.
288 [No. 227
these two years, and thereby sunk his estate considerably.
His only wish of late has been to accomplish the amount of his
loss. It is said a compromise has lately taken place, that the
sum of near 80,000 Rs. has been made up to him, that he is to
return to Europe with Captain Meers of the Egmont, and Colonel
Champion to command the army, a very active officer, and in
every respect equal to the station ..."
" Robert Palk."
" P.S. — I have received your letter of the 15th March, 1773,
by Mr. Ives, and will give him every assistance in my power.
I've not yet seen him.
[Holograph, 8 pp., 4io.] " R.P."
[Enclosure. Revenue Regulations of] 28rd November, 1773
A Duan'i) will be appointed to each of the provincial councils,
and the Roy Royan'^> will serve as Duan to the committee at
Calcutta. The provincial councils and the Calcutta committee
will take orders from the revenue council, as the Collectors do
at present. The parwanas*^' of the revenue council to the
Duans, and all sanads'** granted by the council, will be signed
by the Governor. Collections in districts which are not the
seat of provincial councils are to be managed by Naibs.(*> The
Naibs under each provincial council are to hold courts of
Diwani Adalat,<^' appeals being allowed to the provincial
Sadr Adalat.'^' They are to decide all cases not exceeding
Rs. 1,000 revenue for Malguzari'*' lands, and Rs. 100 for
alienated or free lands. For larger sums appeal lies to the Sadr
Diwani Adalat.'^' Complaints against head farmers, district
naibs, zemindars, &c., are to be decided by the provincial
councils, appeals being carried to the revenue council at
Calcutta.
Military officers are forbidden to detach parties of sepoys
save on military service, or to confine any person not under
their orders, or to lend or borrow money, or to have any concern
in farms, taluks'^") or securities, or to sell any article, or to have
dealings with any landholder or revenue officer.
Officers of the Faujdari Adalats'^i' are forbidden to hold
farms or other offices in the mofussil.'i^) Any complaints
against them will be made to the Governor, to be referred by
him to the Sadr Nizamat Adalat'^^' for decision.
(1) Dium (dlwdn), chief revenue officer.
(2) Boy Royan (rairaiyan) , deputy chief revenue officer.
(3) Parwana {parwdna), written order, permit.
(*) Sanad, deed of grant.
(5) Naib, deputy.
(6) Diwani Addlat, civil court.
(7) Sadr Addlat, chief court.
(8) Malguzari, assessed for revenue.
(9) 8adr Diwani Addlat, chief civil court.
(10) Taluh, from Ar. alaka, signifies (in Bengal) a tract of proprietary land.
(11) Faujdari Addlat, police or criminal court.
(12) MofussU (mufassal), outlying districts.
(13) Sadr Nisdmat Addlat, chief criminal court.
No. 227.] 234
Members of the superior councils either in Calcutta or the
divisions are prohibited from every kind of trade, except in
diamonds for remittances, or goods bought in Calcutta for
export to foreign markets, or goods brought from foreign
markets. In compensation for their lost privileges an allowance
of Rs. 3,000 per month will be granted. The export warehouse-
keepers at Calcutta and in the divisions are forbidden to trade
in articles of the Company's Investment.
No covenanted servant shall make advances for the purchase
of grain or other article of prime necessity for natives, such as
ghee, fish, oil, jute, straw, betel or tobacco, all which must be
purchased for ready money at market prices.
[8 pp., 4^0.]
[No. 228.]
Frederick GRiiriTHs'i' ^q [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
1774, January 20th, Calcutta. — ^My brother has informed
you of my arrival here after a not unpleasant passage, thanks
to the gentlemen to whom you kindly recommended me.
" I am happily situated in the family of Mr. Hastings, whom
I am already under obligations to. When my brother'^'
presented me to him, he generously desired me to consider
myself in his family while I remained in Calcutta. Shortly
after, I was ordered to join the corps of cadets, a great distance
up the country. My brother, with the advice of some military
gentlemen, his acquaintance, mentioned to Mr. Hastings his
wish that I should have leave to remain some time longer at
Calcutta ... He agreed, and would employ me to assist him,
as he had seen some of my writing. This he has since done . . ."
" Frederick Griffiths."
[Holograph, 1| p., flscp.]
[No. 229.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place, St.
James's.
1774, February 2nd, Fort St. George. — I am sending you a
pipe of old madeira, which I ask you to accept. " As I have
no thoughts at present of leaving this country, and as my
employ will be ruined if Mr. Baker should have the watering
of the ships, I have thought of a thing which is very advan-
tag[e]ous if it can be obtained, and which I think may be
done if you will be pleased to favor me with your assistance.
It is to make a tender to the Court of Directors for the Settle
and Tobacco farm and Bang'^' leaves (as they always go together)
<1' Frederick Griffiths, one of tlie two sons (No. 50, p. 76) of the Bev. Charles
Griffiths, appears to be identical with William Griffiths (No. 163, p. 184, and
No. 221, J). 226). His name was probably Frederick William.
(2) Henry Griffiths.
<3) Bang, bhang, from Sansk. bhanga, hemp : the leaves of Cannabis indica, from
which a narcotic is derived.
235 [No. 229.
as soon as the present cowl expires, which will be about two
years hence. It was granted to the present renter for Pags.
28,000 per annum, and I mean that my tender for the next term
shall be Pags. 30,000, and to give Soucar or other security to
the Governor and Council . . and I will supply the publick
in such beatle, tobacco and bang leaves as other renters has done
before me . . "
It has not been customary, it is true, to let the farm to a
European, but this is probably because no European has
hitherto tendered. I look to you for your kind assistance, and
I have written to Mr. Boehm for his.
" Reyno. Adams."
[Holograph, 4| pp.. Mo.]
[Duplicate, 2 pp., flscp. Wax seal with arms and initials
" R.A."]
[No. 230.]
Chocapah to the Honble Robert Palk, Esqr.
1774, February 4th, Fort St. George. — Since December last
the French at Pondicherry have been employing 2,000 coolies
on the fortifications on the west side of the town, under the
direction of their engineer, M. Beausset. Since M. Foucault's
arrival in October the Council has not met, but in December a
council of justice was formed, consisting of M. Law, M. Foucault
and four others. The military force now comprises about 1,000
Europeans, 600 sepoys, lascars and coffrees, and about 150
peons.
It is reported from Muscat that the Company's charter is
renewed to 1787, and that Bengal is to become a King's settle-
ment, but nothing is said about the Coast. We shall soon receive
definite advices. Mr. Cotsford'^' and Mr. Hay*^) are leaving for
England.
" Rackobah, the Chief of the Morattas, with about 70 or
eighty thousand horses, came near Hydrabad and settled
matters with Nizam Ally Cawn, and is arrived at Seerpoor*^'
with the said force to concert measures with Hyder Ally ; and
as soon as this is done 'tis reported that he intends marching
with his whole force towards the Carnatick. It is reported
that his demand of the Nabob is chiefly to put the King of
Tanjore in possession of his territorys, and the delivering up
of the Marawars' country back to them, Arrany'*' country,
and the tribute for several years past due to them ; and
threatens otherwise to remain a long time in these parts and
to destroy and ruin the country. The Nabob, we are appre-
(1) Edward Cotsford. Vide No. 183, p. 190, note 1.
(2) James Hay, Paymaster at Trlchinopoly, a civil servant of 1756.
(3) Seerpoor. Chokappa probably means Sirpi, otherwise called Sira, in Mysore.
Cf. No. 232, p. 237.
(4) Arrany (Arm). The Marathas had ruled this territory for about thirty year*
in the seventeenth century, and still laid claim to it.
No. 280] 236
hensive, will not incline to deliver up any of those countrys,
but endeavors to make up matters with money . . .
" Mr. Benfield(i) is banker and soukar to his Highness the
Nabob : all drafts and bills for the payment of the kists<2) to
the Company are sent to him, and he discharges it . . ."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp., demy.]
[No. 231.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk^ Esqr.
1774, February 6th, Fort St. George. (Duplicate). "The
Tenively business don't go on well. The Renter at first said
he had no Star pagodas. When we agreed to take Porto Novos
he would not pay, he said, on Captain Cooke's receipt, but must
have mine, as the Tanaka'^i run[s] in my name. I sent Captain
Cooke my receipts for the first three payments. When he
presented them to the Renter, he said he had no pagodas, but
offered to pay ip chacramt*' or fanams. These fanams anywhere
out of that country is not worth three quarters of the money,
and to exchange them there in Porto Novo pagodas or Bombay
rupees would take up a very long time. I applied to Buckunjee's
House, '^) and offered them to discount five per cent, if they
would give me bills. They said they had thirty thousand of
those fanams lying there to be exchanged. I considered,
however, if I refused taking the fanams it might furnish the
Nabob with a pretext to say that I refused, for the sake of a
trifle, taking the money when offered ; and the Nabob sending
to tell me he would make good the difference, I wrote away to
Captain Cooke to receive even the fanams ... I assure you,
Sir, I do every thing in my power, but you are too sensible that
it is an affair that requires influence, and I am but a private
person . . ."
" John d'Fries."
[Autograph, 2 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 232.]
MuDoo KisTNA to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1774, February 12th, Fort St. George. — " The Nabob resides
at Chepauck as usual ; and as he had long design upon Tonjore,
marched his troops jointly with the English forces against it
in the beginning of August, and took that Fort and the country
on the 19th of September last. The Rajah and his ministers
were made prisoners and their effects seized, and they still
(1) Paul Benfield. Vide No. 78, p. 109, note 1.
(2) Kisi, instalment of land revenue.
(3) Tanaka. Vide No. 252, jj. 248, note 2.
(4)JC7jfflcra»t, from Tarn, chakram, a wheel ; silver coin formerly widely cui'renfc in
Southern India. The gold pagoda was equivalent to 22J Tanjore silver chakram.
At the present day 28 J Travancore chakram go to the rupee.
(5) A noted firm of native bankers.
237 [No. 232
remain confined in the Fort. The Nabob has placed his own
garrison in the said Fort : none of the Company's troops are
there. The Company's garrison only remains in the Vellum
Fort as usual. The Dutch raised some disputes about certain
districts of the Tonjore country, which at length were settled
between them and the Nabob, who has an entire possession and
sole management of the Tonjore country and the Fort at present.
" Narrain Raw,<i' General of the Maratters, being murdered,
his uncle Ragonada Raw succeeded in his room, and took the
field with his army, and after having made up the difference
which subsisted between him and Nizam Ally Cawn, crossed
the river Kishna and [is] now steering, as it is said, towards Serah
in the Balagat'^' ; and it is talked that after he settles with
Hyder he will think of marching to the Pain Gaut Carnatick
to receive his Chout and to get the Tonjore country restored to
the Rajah if possible. But our Nabob is not unmindful of his
own affairs, for he has employed people to negotiate with the
said Ragonada Raw, but what success he will meet with none
but God can tell. At present the country is very much alarmed
of the Marattas ..."
[Autograph, 2| pp., Uo.] 'YMuDOO Kistna."
[No. 233.]
Robert Palk, jun., to Robert Palk, Esqr., London.
1774, February 23rd, Patna. — I have unfavourable accounts
of our remittance by way of China. Mr. Price could not sell
the opium at a profit owing to its poor quality. I shall be
lucky if I recover the principal from him. The cost of insurance
will fall on me, you and the Adams sisters, unless you think
I ought to bear it all. Price ought to pay the insurance, but
his affairs are much involved. At the outset I was unwilling
to engage with him, but I was overruled by George Vansittart.
He and I stand to lose Rs. 36,000. We began a lawsuit, but
George has relinquished his claim on Price owing to the latter's
misfortunes, and wants me to do likewise. I do not now know
of any good method of remitting to England. Unless you can
procure money by bills on me, I must send home gold mohurs.
" It is reported that the Marrattas have settled all their own
disputes, and are now about to take the field ; that a body is
to march for Delly and another for Arcot. We are under no
apprehension of them this way. Shuja Dowla is fighting with
the Jauts,*^> and is now before the fort of Agra, and so is
Nudjuff Cawn'** with the King's troops, but they cannot take
it. Shuja has applied for one of our brigades to assist him,
(1) Narayan Rao, fifth Peshwa, was murdered in 1773 at the instigation of his
uncle Raghunath Rao, commonly known as Raghoba.
(2) The Balaghat. Vide No. 163, p. 183, note 1.
(3) The Jats, who occupied territory to the westward of the Rohillas, had taken
Agra in 1773.
(*> Najaf Khan, the Emperor's general,
No. 238,] 238
and it is now near Banaras marching up. Whether the Governor
and Council will permit our troops to march beyond Shuja
Dowla's dominions I can't say, but I fancy it's his wish that they
shall be employed to reduce all that country.
" I believe I have not mentioned some views of Patna and
Dinapore cantonments taken by a black man, which I left in
Calcutta to be sent you. They are pretty well done. Miss Van
was to send them to you by Captain Skottowe ..."
" Robert Palk."
" P.S. — I've just heard that Agra was to be given up to
Nudjuft Cawn for the King about the 28th of this month. R.P."
[Holograph, 5^ pp., Mo. Wax seal inscribed " Robert Palk "
in Persian characters.^
[No. 234.]
Robert Palk, jun., to R[obert] Palk, Esqr.
1774, March 11th, Patna. — I enclose for your information
copies of correspondence between George Vansittart and myself
about the scheme of remittance by way of China. I consider
that Mr. Price has not behaved well in the matter.
" George writes me the Council are going to pay off all the
Company's bonds granted before 1769, and that in future no
more than 5 per cent, interest will be allowed on borrowed
money. Every charge in the Civil department is decreased
to the utmost : they are now beginning with the Military. A
saving of some lacks is talked of only in the article of lascars
stationed with the artillery and at subordinate Factories. A
post is to be established all over the country the first of next
month, that is to say, from that time all persons are to pay at
the rate of 2 annas per hundred miles for a single letter.'^'
Hitherto the Dawks'^' have been an annual charge of above
2 lacks of rupees to the Company. It is now expected that the
Company will gain by them. At this rate I imagine in 2 or
3 years the whole of the Company's debt in Bengal may be
cleared from the savings made during Mr. Hastings's govern-
ment.
" I hear the Marattas have given some alarm at Madras,
although they have not entered the Carnatic, nor perhaps
intend to. Nothing has been done above since the taking of
Agra. Our troops are marching on towards Shuja's frontiers,
and it's imagined will be quartered there till the rains. The
settlement Mr. H. has made with Shuja Doula for paying the
Company's troops when in his country doth not meet with the
approbation of people in general. It is called hiring the troops
to the country Powers."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4<o.] " Robert Palk."
(1) A ' single ' letter was one not exceeding 2i tolas in weight.
(2) Paick {Mk), post, transport by relays of men or horses.
239 [No. 234..
[Enclosures. Copies of five letters which had passed between
Robert Palk, jun., and George Vansittart relative to their China
scheme of remittance.]
[No. 235.]
MuDOO KiSTNA to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1774, March 15th, Fort St. George.—" It pleased God to put
an end to the alarm of the Maratas, for Narainraw's relations
at Poona, having joined together, raised an army by concurrence
of Narainraw's mother and widow, and are upon a scheme to
attack Ragonadaraw and to put an end to his authority. Which
news coming to Ragonadaraw while he was upon his march
to the Balagat country, he thought it dangerous to stay there
any longer, and so he returned on a sudden to his own country,
by which means the country in these parts is cleared from the
apprehensions of the Marata troubles at present.
" As to the Nabob, he keeps his Court at Chepauck, and every
thing goes very well with him according to his satisfaction.
He seems to be firmly settled in his new acquired province of
Tonjore. The Raja of the said place, with his family, is still
kept prisoner in the Fort of Tonjore, and whose hopes are
entirely vanquished at present by reason of the return of the
Marata army as aforesaid ..."
" MUDOO KiSTNA." ■
[Autograph, 1 p., flscp.]
[No, 236.]
J. Price to Messrs. Fitz Owen Jones and James Potter,
Jerusalem Coffee House,<i' London.
1774, March 18th, Calcutta. — In my letter of the 6th instant
I stated that I had settled with Mr. Vansittart and Mr. John
Call as I did with Dacre & Harris, except that the insurance
premium paid by Mr. Call on his venture of Arcot Rs. 25,000
on the Albion to China is to be repaid by you on my account.
I have since arranged with Mr. Palk as with Mr. Vansittart.
Of the Arcot Rs. 50,000 lent by the former. Current Rs. 27,000
belonged to his uncle Governor Palk, and Current Rs. 7,135 to
the estate of Captain Adams the Engineer. <2' I have engaged
to meet the insurance premium on both these sums, and I
request you to pay it to the agent of either Mr. Palk or Mr.
Vansittart.
"J. Price."
[Autograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[Endorsed in the hand of Governor Palk] " Captain Price
to Fitz Owen Jones and James Potter, Esqrs. to repay the
insurance made by R. Palk on the Albion to Canton on his
(1) The Jerusalem Coffee House is mentioned in An Essay on Friendship published
in 1725.
(2) Vide No. 211, p. 220, uotejl.
No. 286] 240
account and Capt: Adams', vizt. Robert Palk, Esqr., Current
Rs. 27,000 ; Adams, C. Rs. 7134 15a. Insured April, 1773, at
5 guineas per lOOZ."
[No. 237.]
[Robert] Palk to H.H. the Nawab of the Carnatic.
N.D. [1774, dr. March.] " To his Highness the Nabob of
the Carnateck Mr. Palk always most fervently wishes an increase
of glory and happiness.
" The gentlemen who are to join Mr. Hastings at Bengal and
compose the new Government there now proceed on their
voyage, and propose to pay their compliments to your Hig[h]ness
on their way. They come with the best intentions to give their
best assistance for preserving peace and prosperity over all
India, and from them you will learn the state of affairs in Europe
and who is most likely to receive the Government from Mr.
Wynch. I hope and believe it will be an appointment to your
satisfaction. Colonel Charles Campbell'^ is endeavouring to
return to the command of the troops, and as I find he will be
very agreeable to you, he shall have all the assistance in my
power. General Lawrence injoins me to make you his most
grateful acknowlegments and, though his memory in other
matters begins to fail him, he shall never forget your singular
kindness to him. I still endeavor to keep up his spirits and
make his life comfortable as formerly, and we often recount
the many happy days we have passed with your Highness in
the field, in garrison and at the Mount."
[Holograph draft, unsigned, IJ p., 4to.]
[No. 238.]
Stephen Sulivan to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place, St.
James's.
1774, April 8rd, 11, Paper Buildings, Temple. — " Dear Sir,
Ever since I last troubled you for money my father's circum-
stances (no secret I dare say to you) barely enable him to supply
me with what is necessary. I am sure that I as a son cannot
feel more than you as a friend. You have uniformly continued
your regard to him, and as for me, you have laid me under the
greatest of all obligations. I protest to you, Mr. Palk, that I
have no other resource but in your generosity, and therefore
I venture to request two or three hundred pounds if you can
possibly spare it. The tide is against my poor father in every
thing. I see not even a glimmering of chance at the election,
and my own prospects here are so gloomy that the East must
be my lot, let me go out how I will. I only wish for an oppor-
tunity to convince you of my honor and gratitude ;f but till that
opportunity offers, accept, I entreat, the sincerest sentiments
L(1) Vide No. 41, p. 63, note 4.
241 [No, 238.
of affection and esteem from, dear Sir, your most faithfuland
obliged servant,
" Stephen Sulivan."
[P.S.] " I earnestly beg an answer from you to-morrow
morning."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[No. 239.]
Stephen Sulivan to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr., Park Place.
N.D. [1774, April.] — " My dear Sir, After my last letter it
looks importunate to write any more ; but as I have only one
guinea, if you could possibly procure me the money and send
it me some time this day, you will essentially oblige your ever
affectionate
" Stephen Sulivan."
[P.S.] " If my servant should happen to be out, your servant
can drop the letter, and it will be very safe."
[Holograph, J p., Uo. Wax seal, device a deer.]
[No. 240.]
Stephen Sulivan to Robeet Palk, Esqr., Park Place.
N.D. [1774, April.] Wednesday evening. Paper Buildings,
Temple. — " Dear Sir, I am infinitely obliged to you for your
kind letter, and though I can with truth say I would not have
troubled you if a real necessity had not constrained me, I must
and ought to wait till it perfectly suits you. When it does, I
have not a doubt but you will obligingly keep me in your
remembrance. I am happy always to wait on you, and I think
myself fortunate in your friendship, which I shall endeavour
through life to retain : but to-morrow I am forced to be out
very early to do all that is in my power by solliciting at the door
of every Proprietor. The very first leisure moment I can find
I will dedicate to you, to thank you for those constant and
steady proofs of regard with which you have always dis-
tinguished, dear Sir, your most affectionate friend and servant,
" Stephen Sulivan."
[Holograph, Ip., 4io. Wax seal, device a deer.]
[No. 241.]
1774, August 1st, Fort St. George. — Statement of Account of
Robert Palk with the Estate of Henry Vansittart. Signed
by J. M. Stone, George Purnell, Moses de Castro, and Pelling
& de Fries,
[2 pp., Uo.]
[No. 242.]
Lau[rence] Sulivan to [Robert Palk].
1774, August 23rd, Queen Square. — " My dear Sir, As I
wished to communicate your letter to my son, who returned but
No. 242.] 242
yesterday from the country, it has not been in my power to
give an earlier answer.
" The people of Ashburton are undoubtedly bound to you
by the powerfull tyes of gratitude and affection as well as of
interest, and therefore their disposition to so generous a
benefactor could hardly be called in question. And the inference
I must draw is that in pressing Mr. Palk to be their Member
they make an absolute rejection of Mr. Sulivan, because it
seems to be an agreed point that they can carry but one Member.
The preference is natural. At the same time I have the pleasure
to believe that, with two exceptions only (yourself and Mr.
Dunning)'!' t^g freeholders of Ashburton would continue
heartily attached to me.
"When I ventured to encourage Stee*^' with hopes of
succeeding me, it was from a riveted (but mistaken) opinion I
had imbibed that Ashburton was the last borough that you or
Mr. Dunning would meddle with ; but the moment I found that
you inclined to stand for this place, I did then, as I do now,
resign the whole to your determination, desiring that you will
direct me in the steps most proper to be taken to do you honour
with the freeholders on my resignation.
" From public motives alone I sought Parliament, but so
little satisfaction have I experienced within those walls that,
had I now my then independance, no temptation upon earth
should have carried me thither again. But the melanchoUy
change makes it (if possible) necessary to the future prospects
of my familly that either I or my son should be in the Senate.
If he happily succeeds any where, and I should in some degree
recover my India line, every wished for purpose will be answered ;
but if the whole ends (not unusual to me) in building castles,
I shall still trust ' that whatever is, is best.'
" It was more my misfortune than fault that I did not meet
Mr. Dunning. I went out to Putney with a full intention to
lay open to him every circumstance, and determined to adopt
such advice as such an inestimable friend should give ; but when
I found those were to dine with us whose smiles had always
attended my better days, I wanted that fortitude which has
seldom failed me, and therefore only said to our friend at
parting that I should call upon him' in Town to mention some
material matters. I did so three times. My son also called,
but we could not meet.
" I have the pleasure to tell you that Mr. Maclean'^' goes on
well, and will certainly wind up honourably. He has already
made a beginning, and sends me by the Resolution money to
buy in Mr. Dunning's India Stock, which will so far take off
a load from Van's estate and me. If I can return to the Direction
and keep him upon his legs, a very large debt will be secured.
(1) John Dunning. Vide No. 105, p. 135, note 4.
(^) Stephen Sulivan.
(3) Colonel Lauchlan Maclcane, Vide No. 169, p. 189, note 2.
243 [No. 242.
" I am unalterably, my dear Sir, your most affectionate and
obliged servant,
" Lau. Sulivan,"
[Holograph, 2 pp., Mo.]
[No. 243.]
Lau[rence] Sulivan to Robert Palk, Esqr., Haldon House,
near Exeter.
1774, September 15th, Queen Square.—" My dear Sir,
Except my kindest acknowledgements, I shall wave for the
present the subject of your last letter.
" Mr. Boyd'i) being uneasy at the security given by Sir George
Colebrooke,<2) and, if good, by no means clear when the money
will be paid, he has been offered, and I understand will accept
in lieu of this security a mortgage on Sir George's Granada
Estate, the nett value 50,000i. at six per cent, per annum for
six years certain, and two reputable merchants enter into bonds
to pay the interest annually in England. Sir George proposes
to borrow 25,000Z. on this estate, or he will exchange the Allum
(our) securitys to that amount. Purling, (3> I hear, means to
take the mortgage for his, which with Boyd's will be about
20,000Z. If you should likewise think this more eligible, give
me a line and this shall be reserved, as I have desired Sir George
to wait untill I have an answer.
" I am ever, my dear friend, yours most affectionately,
" Lau. Sulivan."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4>to. Wax seal with arms, defaced.}
[No. 244.]
Rob[er]t Palk to Laurence Sulivan, Esqr., M.P., Queen
Square, Ormond Street.
1774, September 21st, Haldon House. — " My dear Sir, I
have your favor of the 15th. Sir George is very good in making
me the kind offer of a Grenada security, but as I cannot wait
six years for the money, it will not suit me. He has used me
very unhandsomely. The Stock which I lent to him and Mr.
Motteux,'*' 4,000/., was bought for the purpose at 223j, and
was to have been returned in May 1772. But when Mr. Boehm'^'
demanded it, you desired it might remain sometime longer ;
so that on the latter I lost 75 per cent., and on Sir George's I
find I am in danger of losing the whole. At his desire it was
transferred the 8th October, 1771, to 4 names, and I was charged
with the transfers. It was to have been delivered back the
May following ; but antecedent to that, on the 11th April, 1772,
(1) John Boyd. Vide No. 97, p. 127, note 3.
(2) Sir George Colebrooke. Vide No. 166, p. 186, note 1.
(3) John Purling. Vide No. 98, p. 129, note 1.
(*) John Motteux. Vide No. 97, p. 127, note 1.
(S) Bdmuna Boehm. Vide No. 97. p. 127, note 2,
No. 244.J 244.
it was transferred into one name and sold off, he, who was in the
secret, knowing when to sell for his own advantage what did
not belong to him ; and to make amends he gives me an AUum
security of £3,000 for what he disposed of /or his own advantage
at about 4,400. This is the true state of the case. I never
asked Sir George but one favor, my nephew's reinstatement,
and you know how much I was hurt upon that occasion.
" I hope, however, the Allum security is ample and sufficient.
Mr. Smith'i' told me it was worth double the sum it stood for,
and if Mr. Purling's and Boyd's assignments are discharged from
it, I suppose it is still -better. Sir George indeed wrote me at that
time that this security was given us out of kindness, because our
demands would certainly be liquidated in a 12 month ; and I still
hope that we shall have a good prospect of receiving our ballances.
" I am ever, my dear Sir, yours most affectionately,
" RoBT. Palk."
[Holograph, If p., Mo. Wax seal ivith ike Palk arms.]
[No. 245.]
Nawab Walajah to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1774, September 24th, Chepauck House, near Madras. — " His
Highness Nawab Waulaujah, Ummeer ul Hind, Omdaht ul
Mulk, Ausuph ud Dowla, Anwar ul dee[n] Cawn Bahauder,
Mimsoor Jimg, Sepoy Salaar, Subadar of Arcot and the
Carnatick, to Robert Palk, Esqr.
" I have already written to you many friendly letters, and
have been much rejoiced to hear you are happy, as you are my
old friend. I have heretofore made some representations to
the Gentlemen in England, but as I have not hitherto learnt
that anything has been done to give me satisfaction, I have sent
Colonel Macleane'2' and Mr. James Johnson'^' to England.
From them all matters may be fully understood. Your friend-
ship for me is of longstanding, and I am always thankful for
it. I hope the favor of your assistance will not be wanting to
settle my affairs, and my obligations will be encreased.
" What can I say more ? "
[Autograph cipher, 1| p.. Mo.]
[No. 246.]
Lau[rence] Sulivan to Robert Palk, Esqr., Haldon House.
1774, September 30th, Queen Square. — "My dear Friend,
By the time this reaches you we are no longer Members of
Parliament, for I am this moment assured, indeed I know it,
that a proclamation for its dissolution comes out to morrow,
and orders are issued to the Post Office to stop franking on
Monday.
(1> Probably Nathaniel Smith. Cf. Xo. 248, p. 245, note 6,
(2) Vuh No. IHO, p. 189, note 2.
<3) Vide Nu, 28, p, 45, note 7,
245 [No. 246.
" However convenient it may be to nlc to have a seat in the
next ParHament, I cannot bear the thought of keeping you
from Ashburton, and therefore beg that you will instantly
secure yourself there. And pray assure our friends the
freeholders that I shall ever retain a grateful remembrance
of their generous attachment, and that if ever I have power
again to obhge individuals, I shall consider my self as much
belonging to them as if [I] was still their Member, and I request
Mr. Dunning, senr.,(i) the Winsors, Mr. Abraham'^) and Mr.
Tripe's) may in particular know these my sentiments.
" I am ever, my dear Sir, your most affectionate and obedient
servant,
" Lau. Sulivan."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo. Wax seal with arms.]
[No. 247.]
Tho[ma]s Short to R[obert] Palk, Esqr.
1774, November 24th, Calcutta. — Having arrived here, I beg
to thank you for your kind recommendations to Mr. Vansittart
and Mr. Palk. The former has rendered me much assistance ;
the latter is away at Dacca.
"T. Short."
[P.S.] " I was sorry to hear of the death of Major Madge at
Madras, to whom you had favored me with a letter."
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo.]
[No. 248,]
L[aurence] Sulivan to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place.
1775, February 12th, Queen Square. — " My dear Sir, I hope
you have seen Mrs. Morse and Mrs. Van, and have pressed them
to obtain Mr. Boddam's'*' solemn promise that he will vote for
me to be upon the House list, as no time is to be lost. Yesterday
a friend informed me that the Boehms have great influence with
Boddam. Pray speak to them. You have supported Captain
Hall'^* and Nath. Smith. '^' I wish you would ask them the
same favour. They have been applied to by several, and they
will not chuse to disoblige many Proprietors.
'1' John Dunning, sen., whose son of the same name was created Lord Ashburton.
The family homestead was a small farm about a mile south of Ashburton on the road
to Pridhamsleigh.
'2) Robert Abraham, of Gurrington, Ashburton, a first cousin of Robert Palk.
(3) Dr. Tripe, of Ashburton, whose son Nicholas married Grace Palk, niece of
Robert Palk, sen.
(*' Charles Boddam, then a Director and formerly a Madras civil servant, married
in 1754 Prances Morse, sister of Mrs. Henry Vansittart.
(5) Richard Hall, who commanded the Indiaman Worcenter for ten years from
1761, was a Director from 1773 to 1789.
(8) Nathaniel Smith was a Director from 1774 to 1795. He formerly com-
manded the Lord Camden. Cf. No. 10, p. 14.
No. 248,} 246
" I have spoke to Mr. Manship'^' and others, and still hold
the same clear opinion that our friend will be foiled.
" I am, my dear Sir, ever yours,
^ "L. SULIVAN."
[Holograph, Ip., 4<to.]
[No, 249.]
Frederick Griffiths to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place,
St. James's,
1775, February 24th. Camp, Mydagaut.— I set out on the
21st October last to join my Cadet corps, and reached camp on
the 8th February. " My pay and batta, with a little oeconomy,
will allow me to keep a small table and to save fifty rupees a
month." My brother Harry has doubtless written to you ere
this.
" Frederick Griffiths."
[Holograph, 1^ p., Uo. Wax seal, device a head.]
[No. 250.]
Chocapah to the Honble Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, July 2nd, Fort St. George. — I informed you in my
letter of the 10th February that " his Highness the Nabob
endeavoured to put his second son Madar ul Mulk*^' head of
Tanjore Fort, and of his intention to give up that country to
him in time ; for which the Governor, Mr. Dawson, <^> Mr.
Brooke,'*) Mr. Palmer,'^) Mr. Jourdan'^' and Mr. Mackay'^'
would not give their consent, thinking that Madar ul Mulk
being not such a person as his Highness's elder son,"*' and very
probably he may in time breed, a dispute with his brothers :
if it happen so, and his having so large countrys in his hands,
he may afterwards not regard the English, and may join with
other European forces and may create troubles. General Smith,
Mr. Stone'^> and Mr. Johnson'i"' are inclined to consent to it,
and that he may go to Tanjore. For which reason the
Governour and Council at present are in two partys. We hear
that this matter are referred to the Supreme Council at Bengali.
" We hear that there are great disputes at Bengali between
Mr. Hastings and General Clavering, which you will come to
understand better by the publick advices from Bengali,
<1) John Manship. Vide No. 97, p. 127, note 5.
(2) Amir-ul-TJmara.
(3) George Dawson, who joined the civil service in 1751, was, like Pybus, one of
Olive's little band of volunteet officers defending Arcot In the same year. He was
in Council in 1768, and retired in 1776.
(*) Henry Brooke. Vide No. 31, p. 51, note 2.
(5' Archdale Palmer joined as a Writer in 1755. He entered Council twenty
years lat«r, and sided with the Majority against Lord Pigot.
(6) Francis Jourdan. Vide No. SS, p. 54, note 1.
(7) George Mackay. Vide No. 13, p. 17, note 3.
(8) Umdat-ud-Umara.
(9) John Maxwell Stone. Vide No. 29, p. 46, note i.
(10) Samuel Johnson. Vide No. 194, p. 210, note 3.
247 [No. 250.
" We have had two Coast and China ships and two Coast and
Bay ships arrived from England the 22nd of last month : on one
of these ships Sir Robert Fletcher and his wife arrived here,
and no news of the appointment of any gentleman at home
for the Government of Madras, but the people imagine that
Lord Pigot will, however, come out to this place . . .
" The Morattas are very troublesome at Bombay, and lately
I hear that our Government there met with great loss of a
detachment of 170 Europeans and 700 seapoys being cut off ;
and also by a hard gale of wind at Surat nine large ships and
about 40 boats were destroyed with goods and merchandizes . .
" Mr. Mackay has sold his great house in the Fort to his
Highness the Nabob for 25,000 pagodas, and Messrs. Felling'"
& de Fries sold Mr. Vansittart's house, that Mr. Morse lived in,
to his Highness also for thirty thousand pagodas . . .
" The Governour and Council affixed an advertizement at
the gates that the Parliament's direction to all the gentlemen
either civil or military in this place and at the Subordinates [is],
from the 1st August, 1774, not to receive any presents, money
or any thing else, either by themselves or by their servants or
people for their benefit, from the Indian princes, powers,
ministers, agents, or from the renters and farmers ; and if
any gentleman receive any such thing and the same be dis-
covered, that they will be obliged to pay double the same they
received, one half of which to be for the Company's benefit,
and the other half to the informer ; and that those gentlemen
shall be sent home immediately unless they give a sufficient
security to embark within twelve months. And if this is the
case, the Madrass gentlemen in the Company's service will find
great difficulty in getting a fortune after they disburse their
own private expences, unless the Company makes them a
handsome gratuity . . .
" The Morattas' Admiral ship was blown up on the Malabar
coast in an engagement with some of our fighting ships, and
since which their fleet did not appear on that coast ; but we
don't know what trouble they may give us hereafter, since the
loss of so many of our ships in the storm at Surat ..."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 3f p., demy. Duplicate.]
(1) Thomas Felling was born in India in 1723, and is believed to have been the
son of Thomas Pelling, sen., Court Sergeant at Madras, who died in 1735. The
younger Thomas was in correspondence with Orme from 1761 to 1763, but liis name
does not appear in the list of free merchants until 1775, when he is described as
' native,' i.e., country-bom. He joined John d'Pries in the firm of Pelhng & de
Fries, afterwards De Castro, Felling & de Fries. Felling had several daughters,
of whom Elizabeth married in 1766 Captain Thomas Gibson ; Ann married 1st
Captain Thomas Oats and 2nd Colonel Ross Lang ; Mary married in 1772 Cotton
Bowerbank Dent, M.C.S. ; Catharine married in 1777 Thomas Falk, M.C.S., and
Sophia married in 1783 Dr. Job Bulman.
'248
[No. 251.]
James Hodges'^' to Robert Palk, Esqr., St. James's
Place, London.
1775, July 4th, Fort St. George.— Since I last wrote to you
in 1772, I have been obliged through illness to make a second
voyage to China. I returned cured, and my health for the
last eighteen months has been better than at any time during
the past five years. The interest of my bond shall be duly
discharged, but I am not yet able to refund the principal. I
have lately been nominated to a seat in the Council at
Masulipatam, where I hope to be able to repay to your nephew
some of the many kindnesses I have received from you.
" James Hodges."
[Holograph, 1| p.. Mo. Wax seal, defaced.]
[No. 252.]
John d 'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, July 4th, Madras. — " We have now only the amount of
the ruby ring and the house to receive from the Nabob, which
I make no doubt, if the country continues peaceable, we shall
be able to do in the limited time, having obtained Tuncaws'^'
for the whole of the amount on the Wongole'^' country, which
from its nearness is a convenient assignment "... We shall
remit through Mr. George Vansittart. The amount due by
Mr. George Smith to the estate of Mr. Vansittart is about £400.
" Mrs. Vansittart's character is vastly raised by her sufferings.
Her misfortune has rendered her mind great. I hope she
will hereafter enjoy the satisfaction of seeing her children
imitating their virtuous parents. Harry is very promising.
Mrs. Parry'*' is happy in her marriage . . .
"Bengal is over run with informers' accusations against
each other. Joe Fowke*^' stands foremost in this honorable
list. Nuncomar was to be tried for perjury and forgery. The
sessions at Calcutta begun the 3rd of last month. Our last
advices from there is of the 12th. They continued setting
still and were upon Nuncomar's cause. A treaty was concluded
(1) James Hodges, a civil servant of 1764, was Mayor of Madras in 1775. Most
of his subsequent term oi service was spent at Masulipatam.
(2) Tuncaw, from Pers. tanlchwah, a draft for money : an assignment of future
revenue.
(3) Ongole, a town and taluq in the Guntur District.
(*) Emelia, daughter of Henry Vansittart, married on the 21st March, 1774,
Edward Parrj', a Bengal civil servant of 1767. He becaime a. Director of the
Company in 1800.
(5) Joseph Fowke, son of BandaU Powke of the Madras ci\-il service, was himself
a Writer at Fort St. George as early as 1736. He was present at the capture of
Madras in 1746, and in common with other civil servants was allowed to go to Port
St. David. There he remained unemployed imtil 1750, when he was appointed a
member oi Saunders' Council. It is uncertain when he left the service, but in 1775
he was a free merchant in Bengal with his son Francis. He associated with Nand-
kumar, and was bitterly hostUe to Hastings. The latter and Harwell prosecuted
both father cud son for conspiring with Nandkuniar to procure false accusations
agamst them. In 1778 Joseph Powke was entertained as a Senior Merchant in
consideration of his " long and faithful services."
249 [No. 252.
with Sujah Dowlat's son, who has ceded to the Company
Bulwansing's'i' country, reckoned worth 35 lacks of rupees
per annum.
" The Gentlemen of Bombay entered in a war with the
•Morattas for the conquest of Salsett. They are joined by
Ragopah, and have to contend with the Ministerial Party, who,
by having the treasure and the army for them, have all the
power, and our army has met with a considerable loss in an
engagement with the enemy in Cambay.
" Here, a great division in Council. The majority in bad
terms with the Nabob. It was a great oversight the suffering
the Nabob to garrison Tanjore, and may be productive of
disagreeable altercations. Already, I am told, there have
been many warm and many illiberal minutes entered on
record. The minority is General Smith, Messrs. Johnson and
Stone . . "
[Autograph, 4 pp., Mo.] " John d'Fbies."
[No. 253.]
George Baker to Thomas Palk.
1775, July 8th, Fort St. George. — I learn from, your uncle,
Robert Palk, Esqr., that Major Madge's children have arrived
in England. Your uncle writes that the deceased Major had
in his hands the effects of Lieut. Thomas Palk and Ensign John
Palk. The Ensign's estate is Arcot Rs. 449 la. Ip., while the
balance due on that of the Lieutenant is Pags. 1,718 14/. 72c.,,
and Mr. Palk asks me to recover the latter amount. I replied
that I would refer the matter to you as surviving administrator.
The case appears to me to stand thus : — To the two estates there
is due from Major Madge's estate Pags. 1,361 26/. 72c., and
from you Pags. 356 24/ Oc, total. Star pagodas 1,718 14/ 72c.
According to a letter from the Major to your uncle this sum is
due to Lieut. Thomas Palk's estate alone, while A.Rs. 449
la. Ip. in addition belongs to that of Ensign John Palk. But
in his statement of account Major Madge represents the former
sum as the total due to both estates, and he makes no mention
of the smaller figure. I shall be glad if you can explain the
discrepancy. Please send me the money you hold belonging
to your kinsmen's estates, so that I may remit it to your uncle.
" George Baker."
[Autograph, 5 pp., flscp. Endorsed in Robert Folk's hand.]
" Cornish Palks, 8th July, 1775, Capt. Baker to Tom Palk."
[This certified copy probably formed an enclosure of No. 257.]
[No. 254,]
Thomas Palk to George Baker.
1775, August 12th, Maz[ulipata]m. — ^Although only nominally
one of Lieut. Thomas Palk's executors, I feel bound to give you
(1) Tributary Raja of Benares.
No. 254.] 250
all the information I can. My own debt to the estate, S. Pags.
315 16/. Oc, arose in this way : — In 1772, at Major Madge's
request, I visited Masulipatam on my way to Bengal and
discussed with him the affairs of my deceased cousin. Lieut.
Palk left no will, but it was his expressed intention to give
everything to his child. On Palk's death in March, 1771, the
Major wrote home to my cousin's friends, but, receiving no reply,
decided after two years that some provision must be made for
the infant, and arranged with me that the sum of Pags. 315, then
in my hands, should be set apart for that purpose. I accordingly
gave a bond for the amount. " It is not fit that I should here
expatiate on the astonishing conduct of Lieut. Palk's friends ;
but how an orphan infant, so nearly in affinity of blood to the
mother of the child's father, could have escaped notice is
unaccountable."
As to the estate of Ensign John Palk I know nothing, but
surmise that it consisted only of clothing and equipment. I
suppose that Major Madge brought both estates under one head
in order to save trouble. The item A. Rs. 449 la. Ip. must be
part of the total sum of Pags. 1718 14/. 2c.
"Thos. Palk."
[Holograph, 5 pp.. Mo. This letter formed an enclosure of
No. 257.]
[No. 255.]
Colonel Robert Gordon'^' to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1775, September 10th, Bombay. — It gave me much pleasure
to receive a letter, dated 7th March, from so valued a friend as
yourself. " Mr. Edmund Veale Lane,*^' whom you mention,
is a young gentleman that I greatly esteem. He served lately
with me as Judge Advocat at the siege and reduction of Tannah
in Salsett, on which event that island, contiguous to Bombay,
was annexed to the Company's revenues, and may be supposed
in peaceable times to produce about five lacks of rupees. Mr.
Lane is now of the Council at Tannah. By [his] being in the
civil department it does not lie in my way to be of much
service to him, as you well know ; but if ever it should, I shall be
happy . . to do him every good office in my power.
" I am happy to hear my old friends Charles Brett and Mac
are alive and well. Pray remember me to them and to Colonel
John Campbell, whose acquaintance I seem to have entirely
lossed, though I do not know how or from what cause, as I do
believe our mutual regard and friendship was for many years
sincere, and on my side ever has continued the same. Mr.
Facey,(3' now a Lieiitennant, is at present on duty at Tellicherry,
(1) Colonel Robert Gordon commanded an expedition to Sm-at and Broach in
1771, and in 1775 one against the Island of Salsette, which he seized and occupied.
(2) Vide No. 150, p. 169, note 2.
(3) George Facey. Vide No. 150, p. 169, note 3.
251 [No. 255.
which Settlement, it's said, will soon be reduced from a Chiefship
to that of a Residency ..."
" Robert Gordon."
[P.S.] — " Our Board have lately, and I think contrar[y] to
every rule of military service, employed Lieut. Colonel Keating,
Chief Engineer and Commanding Officer of Artillery, to
command an army as auxiliaries to the side they have taken,
vizt. that of Ragaboy, who murdered his nephew,'" in the
present internal disputes among the Maharrattas. This
Ragaboy was in possession of the government for sometime
after the murder, but it so happened that his nephew's widow
was brought to bed of a posthumous son, whose interest the
ministry support, and are possessed of all the country and the
revenues. After being four months in the field and nothing
done of the smallest importance to the general cause, , the
ministry very artfully applyed to the Supreme Council and
obtained their express orders for a cessation of arms ; and they
have sent Lieut. Colonel Upton from Bengali to Poonah as
their Ambassador with full powers to accommodat[e] all
differences.
" From a difference with our Board regarding the meaning
of the last instructions of 29th March, 1774, and alluding to a
Lieut. Colonel left in the command of Tannah Fort, his not
receiving the parole from a Resident, and a very extraordinary
letter I received from the Board in consequence, I had then
resigned the service when a convenient oppertunity offered for
England op by the way of China. Soon after which time the
Board took a part in the Maharratta war, and therefor
nominat[ed] Lieut. Colonel Keating, which I repeatedly
opposed, and afterwards offered my service ; but they chose
to adhere to their nomination, which I do believe they have
since repented, our President and Council having signified
their wishes that I should continue in the command till the
cause of our differences should be determined by the Court of
Directors, to whom they are referred ; which proposal, as an
approbation of my passed services, I reddily accepted of."
[Holograph, 8 pp., Uo.]
[No. 256.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, October 7th, Madras. — I shall be ready to take charge
of your affairs from Mr. Stone when desired. I recommend
the sale of the house. Although out of repair, it will fetch a
good price owing to its situation. " I look upon houses to
be now at their meridian in Madras." General Smith sails in
the Colebrooke on the 16th. Mr. Wynch remains till Lord
Pigot arrives. " The disagreement between the majority in
(1) Narayan Kao, the Peshwa.
No. 256.] 252
Council and the Nabob continues still. Mr. Stratton has quitted
Vizagapatam. Sam Johnson is appointed to succeed him.
" The Governor General and Supreme Council having wrote
to Basala Jung'^' to dismiss all the Europeans in his service,
(it is reported he has five hundred men, French and others, in
his pay) a considerable party is set out to be the bearers of
the letter. I hope it will have no serious consequence.
" The animosities in the Supreme Council at Bengal rage
very high. Nothing is done but from the spirit of party, and
the majority seem determined to carry their point in everything
and spare none of those that they think to be of a different
interest. Joe Fowke is rewarded with the Residency of
Banares'^' ; his son Collector of that province ; Mr. Stewart'^'
put out of the Secretaryship ; Playdwell'*' dismissed from
Master of the Police — a post of profJfit. He joined in an address
to the Judges. In short, it is a melancholy prospect.
" The Supreme [Council] having disapproved of the measures
pursued by the Bombayers in the war with the Morattas, a
cessation of arms has taken place. After the risques we had
run in a rupture with those powerful people it will be to be
lamented if we give up the advantages we have gained in the
acquisition of the island of Salsett, which is the grainery of
Bombay. The conjuncture is favorable for dividing and thereby
lessening the Moratta power ; although it must be allowed the
Government of Bombay did not concert their measures properly,
which exposed us to real danger."
Hyder Ali preserved neutrality in the Maratha disputes. He
has reorganized his army, and is expected to take possession
of the districts east of Goa which Ragoba made over to him.
Some suspect that he is aiming at Travancore.
" The exportation of the specie continues with us to a greater
degree than ever. It is reckoned that in the course of this
present year six lacks of pagodas have been exported to China
and Europe — a melancholy and very alarming circumstance,
for it must drain the country, and that very soon if continued . ."
" John d'Fries."
[Holograph, 3| pp., Mo.]
(1) Basalat Jang. Vide No. 19, p. 23, note 6.
(2) This was a false rumour : Joseph Fowke was permitted to reside at Benares,
but he was not appointed Resident.
(3) John Stewart, appointed by tlie Directors Secretary to. the Bengal Govern-
ment, arrived at Madras in 1772 and accompanied Hastings thence to Calcutta.
Dismissed by the majority of Council in 1775 against the wish of the Governor
General, he returned to England. His restoration was demanded as one of the
conditions of the delivery of Hastings's provisional resignation.
(*) Charles Stafford Playdell (or Pleydell) arrived in India in 1744. He resigned
the civil service about 1765 and returned to England, but went out again in 1771.
In 1774 Hastings appointed him Superintendent of Police, a post from which he
was dismissed by the Claveriilg faction in the following year. He was subsequently
reinstated by order of the Directors. He married Elizabeth, daughter of Governor
Holwell in 1759, and died at Calcutta in 1779.
253
[No. 257.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, October 10th, Fort St. George.— I regret that the
pagodas sent home on account of Major Madge's estate reahzed
an indifferent price, but I cannot follow your recommendation
to send gold in ingots because I have nothing left to remit.
The balance of the estate comes in bonds at 7*. 6d. per pagoda,
payable one year after sight.
The statements of account which you send of the estates of
your kinsmen Thomas and John Palk agree with those found
among Major Madge's papers ; but I can trace nothing regarding
the item Rs. 449 la. Ip., and I assume that both estates were
included in the statement sent to you in October, 1772. I wrote
to your nephew Thomas Palk on the subject, and I now enclose
his reply to my letter. I also send a final statement of the
account at the time of the Major's death. The balance due,
Pags. 1,361 26/. 72c., I have paid to your attorneys here.
" George Baker."
[Autograph, 3 pp., flscp.]
[Enclosure. — Statement of Account of the Estates of Thomas
and John Palk. Other enclosures were Nos. 253 and 254.]
[No. 258.]
Chocapah to the Honble Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, October 10th, Fort St. George. — Since I addressed you
by the Swallow, man-of-war, on the 2nd July, I have learned
with satisfaction " that Lord Pigot is coming out on the
Greenwille for the Government of Madrass, which gives all the
inhabitants, merchants and people in these parts much pleasure
and joy, as they lived very happy in his Lordship's Government
formerly by his defending Madrass and distressing the French
at Pondichery.
" We hear that our Government at Bombay and the Marattys
are in cessation of arms, and the Gentlemen of [the] Supreme
Council at Bengali sent an English gentleman'^' as Ambasidor
to Ponnah to settle the matters with the Marattys, and to settle
the difference of their family disputes ; and if that affair is
once settled by our Ambasidor, the Marattys will always be our
friends, and we shall have none of their troubles in these parts
any more."
Four merchant ships have arrived at Pondicherry from France,
bringing goods consigned to MM. Law and Moragin and some
warlike stores. Work on the fortifications there goes on. " Mr.
Dowsett'2) was obliged to go away from this place to Pondichery
about two years ago on account of his creditors, and from thence
(1) Colonel John Upton, Bengal Infantry. Vide Xu. 260, j,. 255, note 6.
(2) Robert Dowsett. Vide No. 34, p. 56, note 1,
No. 258.] 254
went to France. Now he came back upon one of these ships
arrived lately at Pondichery ..."
Mr. Monckton's ship has returned from Manila with dollars
for the owners and "for the Arminion and Black Merchants
of this place," but the goods did not sell well.
" Mr. Hastings and the Gentlemen of [the] Supreme Council,
they say, do not agree with one another, and they say both of
them are waiting for answers from England about their
disputes."
General Smith and Governor Wynch are preparing for their
homeward passage. " Mr. Wynch has been very kind and civil
to every one in the place. [He] made a good Governour to all
the inhabitants and people of these parts ..."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp., demy.]
[No. 250.]
Richard Welland(1' to Robert Palk, Esqr., M.P., Halldon
House, near Exeter.
1775, October 12th, Madrass Road. — " Honoured Uncle . .
We are just come from Masulipatam, where I was on shore and
saw Mr. Thomas Palk, and he behaved very kind to me and gave
me some books. Mr. Baker asks me on shore very often,
likewise Mr. Adams . . We sail for Bombay on Sunday next.
We expect Lord Pigot here every day, and Governor Winch
goes home this year. I think hats is very dear in India . . .
" Believe me to remain, with the sincerest love for you and
my aunt and cousins, &c., &c., dear Uncle, affectionately your
ever dutiful nephew,
" Richard Welland."
[Holograph, 1 p. flscp. Wax seal with profile head.]
[No. 260.]
George Baker to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1775, October 13th, Fort St. George. — In a separate letter I
have dealt with the affairs of your deceased kinsmen Thomas
and John Palk. Those of Major Madge, I learn, you have
committed to his father and family. I congratulate you on
the increase to your own family.
" I should be glad to give you some account of publick affairs
here, but my knowledge in this respect is very confined, though
on the whole I think I may say that the Board do not draw well
together. The late disputes about the Nabob's sending his
second son as Fousdar*^' to Tanjore gave birth to party and
resentment, perhaps to rancour, which has not yet subsided,
nor is it like to in the present reign. The expectation of Lord
(1) Richard Welland, a naval cadet in Sir E. Hughes's flagship, was a son of
Richard Welland, sen., who married Grace, Governor Palk's only sister,
(2) Fousdar (faujdar). Vide No. 42, p. 66, note 2,
255 [No; 260.
Pigot's speedy arrival has by no means increased the respect
that was paid to the present Governor. He has in general a
party of Brooke, Dawson, Palmer and Jourdan, but not always
a majority. Mr. Stratton'^' is very lately arrived here from
his Chiefship of Vizagapatam, and a few days since resigned it.
Dawson and Johnson were the best supported candidates, but
the latter carried it for the Chiefship. Brooke sollicited, but
had no support. He was told by some that he had had his
chance at Masulipatam.
" The ramparts of the West front of the town and the faceing
thereof are up to the cordong,'^' and bombproof casements'^'
all round compleated. The dry dyt[c]h and cunette**' are also
in a good degree of forwardness, but the covered way and
glacis not far advanced. The ramparts are indeed very subs-
tantial, but some cracks in the faceing have already made their
appearance, and have very lately been mended without any
publick notice taken of it, and plaistered over. The East lire
is contracted for by Mr. Binfield,'^* and the foundation to the
S.E. was just begun on, but left off again till after the monsoon.
" Mr. Stratton has tryed by every means he could to prevail
on Mr. Wynch to go on the Nottingham and leave him in
possession of the Chair untill Lord Pigot's arrival, but to no
purpose. Mr. Wynche's friends prevailed on him to continue,
as not knowing what may happen to prevent Lord Pigot's
speedy arrival."
Affairs in Bengal you will hear of from your friends there.
Our latest news from Bombay was " that the Mahrattas and
our Gentlemen there had agreed on a cessation of arms; and
the Supreme Council at Bengali haveing sent a Colonel Lupton'^'
from there over land to Poonah with full powers to treat on
a peace, it is supposed that good work will be effected.
" The General"'' and Colonel Bonjour**' come home on the
Colebrooke, which with the Nottingham, it is said, will certainly
sail on the 15th instant. An^ on that day also Sir Edward
Hughes in the Salisbury, together with the Coventry and Sea
Horse, sail for the Mallabar coast. Sir John Clark'^' in the
Dolphin sailed in March last from Bengali with a quantity of
the Company's opium for Balambungan,""' since which it has
been reported, but without any certain foundation, that
settlement is cut off.
(1) George Stratton! Vide No. 47, p. 72, note 6.
(2) Cordon, the string-course at the base of the parapet.
(3) Casemates, chambers in the ramparts.
(4) Cunette, a longitudinal trench dug in the ditch.
(5) Paul Benfield. Vide No. 78, p. 109, note 1.
(6) John Upton entered the Bengal Infantry as Captain in 1764, and became
Lieut. Colonel in 1769.
(7) General Joseph Smith.
(8) Colonel Abraham Bonjour. Vide No. 30, p. 50, note 2.
(9) Sir John Clarke, who carried off Eliza Draper from Bombay in 1773 (Cf. No.
281, p. 271, note 4) commanded the man-of-war Prudent in the preceding year,
when he was knighted.
(10) Balambaugan, an island off the north coast of Borneo, where a settlement
was established by Alexander Dalrymplo in 1764,
No. 260.] 256
" Your nephew Mr. Palk at Bengali has been ill of a fever,
but is well recovered again. Mr. Thomas Palk at Masulipatam
was well a few days since. The Salisbury, man-of-war, was very
lately there for some of the Company's bales, which gave your
two nephews, Messrs. T. Palk and R. Welland, an opportunity
to see each other. Master Welland is very well, but as he has
not been on shore since they came from Masulipatam, I have
not seen him lately. For the Commadore pays close attention
to the manner in which all his young gentlemen spend their
time, and lets them come on shore when he thinks proper, and
then only . . .
"As to myself and my affairs, they remain as they were ;
and I confess that I am glad we are to have Lord Pigot or any
other new Governor, since, be who it will, he may be less partial —
more so than the present he cannot be." I have in fact been much
hampered in my work, and unless matters are placed on a
better footing I may have to seek redress in England. " The
grand point I have had in view throughout life has been peace
and quiet at the eve of it. I will still keep to my own maxim,
and procure it if I can at any rate. This I hope you and yours
now do, and may long, very long injoy in the most ample
degree ..."
" George Baker."
[Holograph, 12 pp., 4io.]
[No. 261.]
Reyno[ld] Adams to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, October 14th, Fort St. George.—" Mr. Stone tells me
he has wrote to you to recommend your selling the house I
live in. If you should resolve upon this, I beg leave to repeat
my request of being the purchaser, as I have dwelt in it so
long . . .
" I have now to request your acceptance of a hogshead of
old Goa arrack, said to be the best ever brought to Madras, on
which account the small quantity brought here lately is much
esteemed. It was got of the dispersed Fathers of the Inquisi-
tion . . ."
" Reyno. Adams."
[Autograph, 2 pp.. Mo. Duplicate.]
[No. 262.]
MuDoo KiSTNA to [Robert Palk, Esqr.]
1775, October 14th, Fort St. George.—" The Carnatick at
present enjoys perfect peace and tranquility. Our Nabob and
Hyder Ally Cawn in outward appearance seem to be upon good
terms. The Moratta state is involved in a civil war ; our
Gentlemen upon the Malabar Coast are in alliance with Ragonaud
Raw, who contends for the Government of Poona ; a battle
or two was fought between him and the ministerial army of the
257 [No. 262.
said place, but it was not decissive. These domistic troubles
have proved very lucky to Nizam Ally Cawn, who by the offers
of his assistance not .only draws money from the Ministers of
Podna, but seizes all such districts and forts of his own territories
which- have been lately taken by the Morattas and added to
their dominions. These troubles have also proved lucky to
the other country Powers both on this and the other side of
the river Kistnah, so as to free them from their incursions and
demands of Choutt.
" By the account we received by his Majesty's frigate the
Coventry, Lord Pigot may be daily expected ; but some people
are of opinion that he, being embarked upon the Bombay ship,
may probably arrive at that place, and proceed hither in the
begining of the next year ; but what may be the will of Divine
Providence no body can tell."
[Autograph, 2J pp., Uo.] " Mudoo Kistna,"
[No. 263.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, December 14th, Fort St. George. — " This acknowledges
the receipt of your favor of the 12th of April last per Gr anvil.
That ship anchored here about sunset on the 9th instant,
Lord Pigot, Messrs. Russel,(i' Dalrymple,'^) Crawfurd,'^) &c., all
well. His Lordship, &c., landed the next morning between
eight and nine o'clock in the midst of a vast croud of people.
Governor Wynch and Council, the Nabob and his family all
met him at the seaside and accompanyed him to the Council
Room, which was filled with a croud of people. After about a
quarter of an hour's stay there. Lord Pigot and the Nabob
withdrew to the Admiralty, where they had about half an hour's
conversation, when the Nabob retired to Chaupauk and his
Lordship returned to the Council Room in the Fort Square.
Here his commission was read and the usual compliments paid
him. This done, the troops were drawn up on the parade and
his commission read again, when he was saluted with three
volleys of small arms and nineteen guns from the saluting
battery.
(1) Claud Russell. Vide No. 12, p. 15, note 3.
(2) Alexander Dalrymple, a Madras civil servant of 1753, was in 1755 appointed
Assistant to the Assaymaster at Fort St. George " to be instructed in the art of
assaying." During the siege of Madras he was Sub-Secretary. In 1759 he was sent
on a commercial mission to the Eastern Islands, where he spent two and a half years,
and concluded a treaty with the Sultan of Sulu. In 1762 he was given the command
of the ahxpLondon, in which he passed a further period of two years among the islands,
establishing a settlement at Balambangan, off the coast of Borneo, and constnicting
a series of charts. In 1765 he returned to England and published works on geo-
graphy and hydrography. In 1775 Dalrymple sailed for Madras with Lord Pigot, as
a member of Coimcil. He sided with the Governor during the revolution, and was
suspended by the Majority. Recalled to England in 1777, he was appointed
Hydrographer to the Company in 1770 and to the Admiralty in 1796.
(3) Quintin Crautord, Vide No. 204, p. 216, note 1.
No. 263.] 258
" The late and present Governor, together with the Council,
&c., now retired to the Admiralty, where the keys were delivered
to Lord Pigot and all the formallityes of his introduction to the
Government compleated, and the late and present Governor and
Council all dined together both that [day] and the next, -which
was a Military Council day and the first of the present Govern-
ment. But Mr. Wynch never assisted on any publick service
after Lord Pigot's landing, though orders have been given to
show him the usual publick marks of respect. He lives at the
Gardens, where Lord Pigot has hitherto generally breakfasted,
though he sleeps in the Fort Square and the young ladyes'^' and
the rest of the family live at the Admiralty. The day after
his Lordship landed he returned the Nabob's visit and passed
about an hour and [a] half with him. No extraordinary news
of what may be intended to do with respect to the Tan j ore
business has yet transpired here, though people seem inclined
to think that something new may happen.
" I have paid my respects to Lord Pigot and Messrs. Russel
and Dalrymple. They received me very civilly, but I have not
yet had an opportunity to speak to either of them about my
business ..."
I will make further enquiries about poor Goodlad's affairs,
but full accounts were sent to England last June. This letter
goes by the Salisbury, Indiaman, Captain Bromfield, which
called here yesterday on her way from Bengal. We hear Sir
Edward Hughes arrived at Anjengo on the 18th November.
" By letters of the 1st November from Bombay Colonel
Lupton,'2) the Envoy from Bengali, was arrived in the neigh-
bourhood of Poonah. Our army was, it is said, advancing
from the north nearer to the Maharatah capital, and the
Government of Bombay had directed the Chief of Anjengo to
advise the trade from Bengali, China, &c., to proceed so high
as Tellicherry without fear, but not to run the risk of proceeding
further till they sent them convoy. This looks as though all
apprehensions of danger from the Maratahs was not yet over . . .
" Our Nabob haveing desired and obtained the permission
of the General Council at Bengali to send Mr. Chambers*^'
(a gentleman who has made a great progress in the Persian and
other languages) to Poonah as his Embassador, he is to set
out on that service in a few days.
" Bazzallyzung'*' haveing got together a number of French
and other Europeans, induced our Gentlemen to send Captain
Edmonds with about a hundred Europeans to Ongole to be
ready to joyn the troops at Ellore if occation should require it,
but they have hitherto remained quiet. This chief haveing
lately laid siege to the capital of some neighbouring little
<1' Sophia and Leonora Pigot.
<2> Colonel Upton.
<3) 'William Chambers, of the Nawab'a service.
'<" Basalat Jang. FWe No, 19, p. 23, note 6.
259 [No. 263.
state, the besieged applyed to Hyderally for assistance. He
immediately, and as privately as possible, sent his son Tippa
Saib with a large party of horse to the relief of the place, and
came upon the besiegers so very unexpectedly and attacked
them so vigorously as to cut off a great number of them, and
among the rest a great part of Bazzallyzung's Europeans,
which has for the present abated our apprehentions of his
designs . . .
"About ten days since we received certain (though neither
publick nor particular) accounts that Ballambangan had been
taken by the people of Solo. It was a private letter from a Mr.
Coles'i' of Council there. He exclaims much against the
conduct of Mr. Herbert, (2> both as to his management before
and at the attack of the place, for I cannot call it defence. It
seems they neither made or endeavored to make any. Loose-
ing gamesters always complain, and Mr. Herbert in his turn
may perhaps have as much to say against his colleague in
Council. But be this as it may, the Company, it seems, loose
two hundred thousand pounds sterling in goods, &c., &c., by
it. As they took to their vessels as soon as they could, I don't
find that many, or perhaps any, lives were lost on the occation.
They are now at a place on the N.W. part of the Island of
Borneo which they call Borneo proper, and from whence we
expect publick advices from them every day."
Messrs. Stratton, Dawson and Brooke all talk of leaving
for England shortly. Mr. Thomas Palk at Masulipatam was
well when I last heard from him.
" The good old General*^' ! My heart warms as the idea of
him comes to my recollection, but I cannot say I lament him.
He lived to a fulness of days and glory, and what could vanity
itself wish more ? . . ."
" George Baker."
" P.S. — Lord Pigot is just returned from a visit to the Nabob
in a rich palankin, which he has presented to him."
[Holograph, 11 pp., flscp.]
[No. 264.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1775, December 14th, Fort St. George. — " Ship Grenvelle
arrived here the 9th of this month, with Lord Pigot, Mr. Russell,
Mr. Dalrymple and Mr. Crawford, who landed themselves the
next morning, and his Lordship's commission was read, and
the Chair was delivered up to him immediately, and all the
inhabitants, merchants and people paid our visit to his Lordship,
and are all in these parts extremely glad to see his Lordship
again in Madras . . . Moodu Kistna is acting at present all
(1) Edward Coles, second of Council at Balambangan.
(2) John Herbert, Chief at Balambangan.
(3) General Stringer Lawrence, who died 10th January, 1775,
No. 264,] 260
his Lordship's affairs . . . Mr. Wynch has resigned up the
Government, and lives at the Admiralty House ..."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 1 p., demy.]
[No. 265.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqi*.
1775, December 14th, Madras. — You will learn from Mr.
Petrie,'!' when he reaches England, of the state of Goodlad's
affairs. " We have received the amount of the ruby ring from
the Nabob, which shall be remitted by Company's bills in
January, and make no doiibt of as easily receiving payment for
the house at the end of the term : by which means the concerns
of Mr. Vansittart in Madras will, I hope, turn out much beyond
expectation ... I am happy to find Mrs. Morse better
reconciled to England than at her first going. I think if Mrs.
Morse and Mrs; Van could live together, it might greatly add
to the satisfaction and contentment of both. I hope their
pecuniary circumstances will turn out better than either of
the ladys apprehended . . .
" Lord Pigot arrived the 9th, and I hope will pass the
remainder of his days with us. A person of his reputation and
intimate knowledge of the Company's and India affairs must
be of great service to us in case of need. There was much alarm
at Chepauk House, which is not over yet, but I wish and hope
every thing will be settled and adjusted in a reasonable and
friendly way. The machine certainly wanted winding up, and
a tight hand is very necessary on such occasions.
" The dissentions at Bengal continue as violent as ever.
Nothing will put an end to it but the removal of one party or
the other. The war with the Morattas on the other coas[t]
continues in suspense. The miserable settlement of Balam-
bangan, I am told, will cost the Company four hundred thousand
£, and the lives of many people ..."
" John d'Fries."
[Holograph, 2f pp., Mo.]
[No. 266.]
Major J[ames] Rennell'^' to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr., at
Halden House.
1776, January 2nd, Bengali. — Forgive my failure to reply
earlier to your letter of March last. " I am aware of the
inconveniencies and folly of returning to England without a
competency. I thank God Mrs. Rennell'^' and myself look no
farther than for the mere conveniencies of life ; so that what
(1) WiUiam Petrie. Vide No. 178, p. 196, note 1.
<2) Vide No. 145, p. 187, note 1. In the course of 1776 Rennell was attacked
by a hand of Sanyasis and dangerously wounded.
(3) Rennell married at Calcutta in 1772 Jane Thackeray, great-auut oj the
novelist.
261 [No. 266.
would be a trifling pittance to many will be affluence to us.
Mrs. Rennell joins me in best wishes to yourself and Mrs. Palk.
We have had the misfortune to lose our little girl, our only
child ; but I hope God Almighty will in good time give us
another."'"
" J. Rennell."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4to. Wax seal with arms.]
[No. 267.]
Lieut. J. Snelling to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr., Halldown House.
1776, January 4th, Sick Quarters, Vizagapatam. — " My ever
honoured and esteemed Patron, Sick as I am at present,
gratitude for the numberles[s] favors I have received obliges
me to let you hear how I go on and where I am stationed." I
wrote last from Aska, whence I was transferred to Captain
Mathews's battalion at Chicacole. This was for me a fortunate
event, for " Captain Mathews,'^* whome I have the pleasure
of informing you is my very generous and sincere friend, is
esteemed by every body to be the most warlike genius in India,
and the most enterprizing man that ever drew sword in this
part of the country." Since he took command of the Chicacole
battalion " he has not only conquered countries before un-
conquerable, but even with one battalion executed greater
undertakings than his predecessors durst attempt even with
thrice his number of men and some companies of Europeans
besides . . . What a pleasure and satisfaction it is for a young
fellow like myself to be under a man so renowned for every
particular of the military art ! . . . Not long ago I was on
detachment amongst those hills so famous for their fatality
to European constitutions. I got a most severe fever and ague,
which had very near ended my life ; and though I have been
for six weeks under the doctor's hands, am not as yet perfectly
recovered. My friends perswade me to leave northern climes
and try those more healthy ones to the southward, but what
signifies my going to a place where, with the strictest o[e]conomy
I should find it difiicult to live on my pay, and probably, from
the number of pleasures to be met with there, such as plays,
horseracing, cockfighting, in short almost all those expensive
amusements you have in England, might be drawn on to live
at greater expence than my income can afford ? I can live
here very genteelly on my means, and as I shall probably never
more visit England, will make every thing as agreable to myself
as possible. Nothing but an extraordinary gust of fortune can
ever procure a soldier one in these iron days, and to be dependant
at home will not agree with my constitution ; consequently I
shall never leave India . ."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4sto.] " J. Snelling."
(1) Two sons and a daughter were bom later.
(2) Captain Richard Mathews, commanding in the Circara, took Jeypur in
1775. Vide also No. 19, p. 27, note 1.
262
[No, 268.]
Colonel Gilbert Ironside to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, January 14th, Calcutta. — I enclose some papers for
your perusal, and venture to offer the following observations
on them : — " What could induce the man to so envenomed an
attack without any provocation on my part, and to the branding
himself with the obloquy of an informer, except it were to
ingratiate himself, as many have lately attempted, with a
prevailing party, no one can devise ; for the trifling difference
we had about a command was merely a pretence, and could
never be the cause of so virulent a proceeding. Thus however
was it represented to the General, 'i' and by him to the Board.
To every member of the Council the charges appeared, as they
really are, frivolous and insignificant ; and the Gentlemen
individually declared to me how willingly disposed they all were
to take a favourable part in it on my account. Unfortunately
at that juncture the contentions at the Board on the dismission
of their late Secretary Mr. Stuart'^' had produced great personal
animosities, and a debate ensued on the manner and form in
which my business was to be taken up. The Governour insisted,
as the matter was introduced by the General, on his making
the proposition ; and the General asserted that it ought to
proceed officially from the Governour.
" During the controversy Mr. Hastings sent me frequently
to assure the General of his acquiescence in any terms tending
to my justification, and General Clavering returned me as
often with the like assurances to Mr. Hastings : both of them
at the same time affirmed that they could repose no confidence
in each other, and that their only repugnance to make the first
advances proceeded from the diffidence each entertained that
some advantage might be taken to the prejudice of the
proposer ; — on one part because I had formerly acted as
Secretary to the Governour, and on the other because the
General since his arrival had particularly distinguished me, and
had taken Mr. Roberts, Mrs. Ironside's brother, as his Persian
Translator. The other Gentlemen, well inclined to serve me,
attended their determination. But with every suffrage in my
behalf, their mutual jealousies and disagreements absolutely
prevented the effect of those favourable resolutions all of them
wished might be adopted, and produced the general orders
which are annexed to my letters. The ultimate decision of
the matter itself is referred to the Court of Directors with a
favourable representation of it from the Council in their public
capacity, and, if I can believe themselves, a recommendation
of it in their private characters. Yet I confess I cannot but
deem myself, by the publication of these orders, very hardly
dealt with, not only from their exposing me to the reflexions
(1' General Sir John Clavering.
(2) John Stewart, Secretary to the GoTcmment of Bengal.
268 [No. 268.
of the world, but as it must of course contribute to impair my
authority in the army.
" Should you regard it's consequence in the same point of
viewj you will grant me, I hope, your kind assistance, whenever
the matter comes in agitation before the Court of Directors,
to obtain an alleviation, if not a reversal, of those orders and
of the censure they convey ..."
" Gilbert Ironside."
[Holograph, 3j pp., 4<to.]
[No. 269.]
Sir Edw[ar]d Hughes to Robert Palk, Esqr., at his house
in St. James's Place.
1776, January 15th, Bombay. — " I came here to dock and
refitt, [as] well as assist, if I can, in the treaty making at Poonah.
This only serves to acknowledge the receipt of your favour per
Grenville, arrived the 10th of last month at Madras, and to
assure you of the welfare of your nephew,'^' who grows a very
smart young man. He is perfectly well, and shall want no
one thing in my power. I will do myself the pleasure to write
you by the Dolphin more fully. You will have received many
letters from me in the course of last year, and which you shall
continue to do while [I am] abroad."
"Edwd- Hughes."
[P.S.] — " My best respects wait on Mrs. Palk."
[Holograph, 1| p.. Mo. Wax seal with arms, defaced.^
[No. 270.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 2nd, Fort St. George. — " I hear that the
Government of England and the East India Company has given
positive orders to Lord Pigot to take Tonjore and the countrys
belonging thereunto from the Nabob, and to put the same in
the King of Tonjore's possession, where the Company's troops
are to be placed, and the King to disburse the charges of the
troops. The Nabob at first seemed unwilling, and told the
Governour and Council to do herein as they think proper ; but
at last his Lordship and the Gentlemen in Council, I hear, are
determined . . . , and orders is sent to Trichinopolly for the
jegiment there to be in readiness to march . . .
" Mr. Macpherson,(2* who came, here as purser to Captain
(1) Richard Welland. Vide No. 259, p. 254, note 1.
(2) John Macpherson came to Madras at the age of 22 as purser of a ship which
was commanded by his uncle Alexander Macleod. He ingratiated himself with
Walajah, and was engaged to represent him in England. Macpherson approached
the Duke of Grafton on the Nawab's behalf, and obtained from the Directors a
writership for himself. He entered the Madras civil service in 1770, but in 1776 he
was dismissed by Lord Pigot's Government for conduct prejudicial to the Company.
Returning to England, he entered Parliament, and in 1781 was appointed by Lord
North to be a member of the Supreme Council. On Hastings's regignation in 1785
Macpherson became provisional Governor-General, and be was created a baronet
in the following year.
No. 270.] 264
Macl[e]od in 1767 . . made great interest with the Nabob,
promising to get some great men in his Majesty's Court in
England to his interest, as also that he will come out to India
as a covenanted servant to the Company. The said Mr.
Macpherson, I hear, when he came out as a Company's Writer
. . . contracted great friendship with the Nabob, and gives him
all the intelligence he possibly can of what passes amongst
the Gentlemen here . . . And since the present circumstances
commenced between his Lordship, &c., and the Nabob, he was
found frequent[ly] going [to] the Nabob in an unseasonable
hour, that is, at eleven or twelve at night . . . ; and [a] few
days ago he, together with Mr. Stuart'^' that came from Bengali
to go from hence, went to the Nabob at about 12 at night.
This behavior of Mr. Macpherson coming to the knowledge of
the Governour and Council, they thought proper to suspend
him the Company's service . . .
"I hear that Mr. Sadleir, (2) Resident at Bandermulunka,
behaved very ill to the inhabitants and merchants there,
taking their vessels at freight against their will to load them with
his goods and merchandize, beating and ill treating several
people, taking bribes and extorting money from several people.
Some of them, I hear, complained of it to the Governour and
Council, upon which the Board was pleased to appoint Mr.
Holland, Mr. Perring and Mr. Davidson'^' as [a] committee to
examine into this matter . . . They are now examining this
affair at Masulipatam . . .
" Several gentlemen in the place, for want of a way of
remitting their fortune to England by bills, sends it in gold and
Star pagodas on every ship that goes from hence, which
impoverish[es] the place very much.
" I hear that the Malays has taken Ballumbungam, and our
Gentlemen who were there quitted the place and went to another
Malay island. The Company on this occasion, I hear, will
sustain a loss of about four hundred thousand pounds on that
island. I hear this is all owing to the bad proceeding of our
Gentlemen there . . .
" Chocapah."
" P.S. — Since I wrote the above the Nabob has given written
orders in the hands of his Lordship, and directed to Najeeb
Cawn, who is Killador'*' of Ton] ore, to deliver up the place to
the English ; and orders has been sent to Colonel Harper'^' at
Trichinopolly to march with his regiment there and take
possession of Ton j ore the 9th of this month . . . And it is
further reported that Sir Robert Fletcher and another gentleman
(1' John Stewart, late Secretary, Bengal. Vide No. 256, p. 252, note 3.
(2) Anthony Sadleir. Vide No. 69, p. 96, note 2.
(3) Peter Perring, Alexander Davidson and John HoUond were Madras civil
servants of 1759, 1760 and 1761 respectively.
'*' Kiladdr, the commander of a fortress ; from Pers. kila, a fort,
(5) Humphrey Harper, as Captain, commanded a sepoy battalion in 1770. He
was a Lieut. Cinlonel in 1775, and in 1779 led a force into Guntur in aid of Basalat
Jang against Haidar Ali.
265 [No. 270.
■will soon set out from hence for Ton j ore, and restore to the
King the conntrys belonging to him in the name of the English
Company. The restoration of the countrys to the King of
Tonjore will be a lasting monument to the English nation, to
the Company and to his Lordship all over these parts, and the
Marattys will rejoice greatly in the English nation's generosity,
and [it will] be a lasting fame to the nation.
" The 10th February, 1776."
[Autograph, 2^ pp., demy.]
[No. 271.]
Tho[ma]s Palk to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 8th, Maz[ulipata]m. — Not having received
a single letter from you during the past two years, I fear that
you must be displeased with me. Were your silence due to the
reports of malicious persons, you would doubtless have given
me an opportunity of replying to their charges ; so that I know
not to what cause to attribute your displeasure. I owe much
to you, and I assure you that my conduct has always been such
as you would approve.
I have been at this station nearly three years, but my position
does not yet enable me to dispense with the allowance you arc
pleased to make me. I refer you to Mr. Whitehill"', who has
resigned the Chiefship and is now going home, for information
regarding me. From him I have received many civilities.
" The Nabob is dispossessed of his newly acquired territory,
and our troops are marching to take possession — a severe stroke
on the Nabob, and he seems to be sensibly affected. India at
present is in a state of tranquility, and likely to continue so if
the French do not take it into their heads to disturb us . . ."
"Thos. Palk."
[Holograph, 3 pp., flscp.]
[No. 272.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 10th, Fort St. George.—" The new Governor
seems to have been particularly attentive in showing his
predecessor every civility in his power during the two months
he has continued here since his supercession. Lord Pigot has
indeed taken the Fort House to himself, but the Admiralty and
Garden House are occupyed in common by him and Mr. Wynch
together with both their familys. The late Governor continues
to receive all the honours usually paid to him in that capacity
equally with the present. He has the head of the table, does
and receives all the honours of it, and each ask their own friends
as they please. In fine, it appears to me that Lord Pigot is
wilHng to send home Mr. Wynch in as good humour as his
(1) John Whitehill. Vide No. 19, p. 29, note 2.
No. 272.] 266
adopting contrary measures in respect of publick affairs will
admit of, well knowing, I should suppose, that a man of two
plumbs in England will be a more desireable friend or formidable
enemy in proportion as that sum exceeds a mere competency.
" The negotiation of the surrender of Tanjore to the
Company's troops has been carryed on between the Nabob and
Lord Pigot (on the part of the Board) with such secrecy that
I am utterly unable to say on what conditions or under what
restrictions, either in respect of the Rajah, the Nabob or the
Company, the new arrangements are to take place. Report
has it that the Nabob's garrison was to march -out, and a
garrison of the Company's to march in, as yesterday the 9th
February . . "
The Ankerwyke, which is now ready to sail, carries Mr. Wynch
and also Mr. Stuart'^', late Secretary, Bengal. Mr. and Mrs.
Vansittart arrived here yesterday in the Hillsborough on their
way to England. Mr. Thomas Palk has asked me to repay to
Mr. Wynch what the latter advanced to him in respect of your
allowance since receipt of your instructions to withhold the
allowance. I was obliged to reply that your orders must be
obeyed. This attitude was painful to me owing to my friendship
for Mr. Palk. When I met him in Madras in 1772 he seemed to
be financially embarrassed, and on the occasion of his visit to
Bengal I advised him to confide in his brother. Whether he
did so or not I cannot say, but I venture to suggest that one
more effort of benevolence on your part might set him on his
feet again.
After the death of Mr. Goodlad it was found that his bond
debts were about Pags. 25,000 and book debts Pags. 15,000.
Of the former, half has been paid, and the assets suffice to meet
the remaining half. James Johnson, now insolvent in England,
owes Pags. 8,000, but the Nawab gave such engagement for that
sum as permitted Johnson to leave Madras. On the recovery
of the amount the book creditors will receive about half their
dues.
" By the last accounts from Bombay we are given to under-
stand that Colonel Lupton'^* was arrived there, and that there
was then a prospect of a peace being concluded between the
English and the Maratahs on favorable terms for the former.
Sir Edward Plughes with his Squadron is there, and will not
return hither till May next ..."
" George Baker."
" P.S. — That you might not be too much puzled in making
out my scrawl I have made my amanuensis (who does not
understand a word of what is said) transcribe it."
[Autograph, 6| pp., flscp.]
<1) John Stewart. Vide No. 256, p. 252, note 8.
(2) Colonel TTpton.
267
[No. 273.]
Mbs. Mary Turing 'd to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 10th, Fort St. George. Received 17th
Feb., 1777. — I have asked my son to wait on you with this letter.
Though I have not received any direct communication from
Mrs. Palk, I have had news of her and your family from my
friend Mrs. Casamaijor'^'. " My two daughters'^' arrived here
in June, 1773, and in August following were both happily
married, the eldest to Mr. John Turing, and the youngest to
Mr. Saunders. They both made me a grandmother . . . My
eldest son, Taylor, is an officer in the Company's service, so
Bob'*' is now my only care. My wish is to get him appointed
a Writer in the service at Madras, for which I must solicit and
rely upon the interest of my friends. You have upon all
occasions shewn a regard for me and my family, which emboldens
me to request your assistance towards my son ..."
"Mary Turing."
[Holograph, 2J pp., Uo.]
[No. 274.J
J[ohn] M[axwellJ Stone to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 12th, Fort St. George.—" You have already
been advised that Mr. De Fries had taken upon him the joint
management of your affairs . . .
" The orders received by the Grenville regarding the Nabob
are exceedingly mortifying to him. They direct that the
country of Tanjore shall be restored to the Rajah, and have
severely censured this Government for having dispossessed
him. It might easily be shewn where the blame ought to lie ;
but as a refutation of the arguments used by the Directors can
answer no good end either to [the] service or myself, I shall not
attempt it. I have frequently, my dear Sir, in my letters to
you shewed the dangers to be expected from the support the
Nabob received from home in opposition to this Government.
The eyes of people seem to be now open ; but they now proceed
from one extreme to the other, and have, I think, unhappily
missed that* proper medium which alone could unite the
Company's and the Nabob's interest on a solid and permanent
footing.
" The Court of Directors have appointed a Committee of
Circuit, who are to make the tour of the Circars and Jagueer'^',
and report their present state and capacity for improvement.
The members of the Committee were appointed by the Directors,
(1) This lady, daughter of Captain John De Morgan, married first Thomas
Taylor and secondly Surgeon Robert Turing.
(2) Rebecca Casamaijor. Vide No. 18, p. 22, note 1.
(3) Mary and Helen Turing married, respectively, John Turing and Edward
Saunders, both civil servants of 1762.
(4) Robert Turing, jun., entered the Madras Army in 1778, rose to the rank of
Major, and died in 1801.
(5) The Company's Jaghire. Vide No. 118, p. 146, note 3.
No. 2T4.] 268
and consist of Messrs. Dawson, Russell, Dalrymple, Johnson
and Mackay. I am, I can assure you, exceedingly happy at
being left out of this disagreeable commission, for such I am
convinced it must prove if it be executed in the manner
intended ..."
" J. M. Stone."
[Holograph, 3 pp., Mo.]
[No, 275.]
H.H. the Nawab Walajah to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 12th, Chepauk.— " .The Gentlemen of the
Company have been induced by groundless reports, which
have never had any foundation from me or my family, and the
representation of people who attend only to their own interest,
to send orders by Lord Pigot in regard to the Tanjore affairs,
as you may have publickly heard. His Lordship has, since his
arrival, been an eye witness of the state of affairs, and is con-
vinced that the reports which prevailed in England were false.
He has therefore solemnly promised that he will make a just
representation to England. I have, however, agreed to take a
Company's garrison into Tanjore on the same terms as in
Trichinopoly and other forts to convince the Company of my
invariable friendship and dependance on them, which have
uniformly subsisted from the beginning. I am always obliged
to them. You'll be thoroughly informed of all matters by the
copies of my letters to the Gentlemen of the Company and to the
Governor and Council of Madrass, which I have sent to Colonel
Macleane. I expect candor and justice from the Gentlemen
of the Company in regard to the Tanjore country, which is
entirely my right. You are my old friend ; therefore I hope
you'll give me your assistance in protecting my rights that I may
always remain under obligations to you.
" What can I say more ? "
[l^p.,flscp. Wax seal on outer cover with Persian inscription.]
[No. 276.]
John D'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 12th, Madras.—" Mr. George Vansittart is
here in his way to Old England on the Hillsborough. To him
I shall beg leave to refer you for all particulars of India news,
confining myself entirely to the subject of our Nabob, who,
poor man, has been greatly affected with the Company's orders
regarding Tanjore. Lord Pigot has behaved with a great deal
of management and indulgence towards the Nabob in the
execution of the orders, and he is himself perswaded of his
Lordship's favorable disposition towards him. The English
troops were to enter Tanjore the 9th instant : it is said a part
of the Nabob's people are to continue in the Fort. The Nabob
agrees to everything— an English garrison, the release of the
269 [No. 276.
Rajah, a proper maintenance to him, a handsome Jaghire for
the Company ; I daresay he will give up all the seaports,
Nagore, Trimelivashel ; — in short, he will do every thing to save
appearances, that the countrey be not wrested out of his hands,
which undoubtedly must make him look very little in the eyes
of his own people as well as the other countrey powers. His
best friends have advised him to submit chearfully to the
Company's orders, and then remonstrate to Europe. It has
cost him a great deal to bring himself to this way of thinking,
which his good sense has at last determined him to. It has
certainly been a bitter cup to him, and he has found it put when
late that his new friends have been the principal cause of the
mortification which he now suffers. He has great confidence
in your friendship and of Mr. Vansittart's family, and tells me
he has wrote to you and sent copys of some papers which will
inform you of what past in this business. His request is so
reasonable now that I dare say you and his other friends will
afford him assistance in having him' redressed. As it is not
sound policy that he should be lifted up too much, I don't
think it prudent neither that he should be too much lowered,
as it certainly is the case in this biisiness. The Nabob declares
that this business of the conquest of Tan j ore has cost him in
the two expeditions three millions of sterling, near three crores
of rupees ; and although he has had the revenues of the country
for two years, he has been obliged to maintain so considerable
a military force that it has, I think, taken off above one third
of it ; so that if the country is taken away from him entirely,
he must be a great looser by his bargain.
" The unlucky turn that the American business has taken
has filled us with much serious reflection. We anxiously wait
to hear from England. God send that matters may have been
made up."
" John d'Fries."
[Holograph, 3 pp., Uo.]
[No, 277.]
Geo[rge] Baker to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 15th, Fort St. George. — " My last address to
you was under date the 10th instant per Ankerwike, on which
ship Governor Wynch imbarked this morning about eight
o'clocke. News haying been received from Colonel Harper
that he with his detachment took possession of Tanjore the
9th instant, that ship carryes advices thereof. She lyes with
her topsails atrip ready to get under way the moment the wind
admits of it . . ,
" The Cottimittee of Circuit will soon set out on their business.
Mr. Whitehill,'!) who was chief of Masulipatam, resigned soon
(1) John^WhitehiJl, Vide No. 19, p, 29, note 2,
No. 277.] 270
after Lord Pigot's arrival. The busy world say he chose not
to stay till the new Committee came their rounds." He and
Mr. John Sulivan'i' sail in a French ship, the Ajax, from
Pondicherry. Crauford,'^* as senior, takes charge temporarily
at Masulipatam. Stratton, Brooke, Dawson and Russell are
all said to be candidates for that Chief ship, but the last named
will probably be appointed.
" In Lord Pigot's intercourse with the Nabob he has somehow
procured from him a memorial from a Mr. Macpherson'^' (who
is about six years' standing in the Company's civil service) to
the Nabob, representing his essential services and claiming a
consideration for them. This gentleman has been in great
confidence with his Highness, and report has it that his council
[sic] to him has been to disregard the Company and cultivate
a good understanding with [the] Ministry, which he
(Macpherson) made the Nabob believe he could greatly promote
by his connections in England. But the affair of Tanjore seenas
to have opened his eyes. Macpherson's memorial was produced
to the Board by Lord Pigot, and he in consequence was
immediately dismissed the service and ordered to Europe. It
is said he has made twenty thousand pounds ..."
" Geo. Baker."
[Holograph, 4 pp., flscp.]
[No. 278.]
MuDoo KisTNA to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 16th, Fort St. George, — " After long expecta-
tion Lord Pigot arrived on the 9th December last, came ashore
on the 10th, and succeeded to the Government ; which being
attended with the seasonable rains in the country this year,
proved very agreeable to the people. At present the Carnatick
enjoys a perfect peace and tranquility. Hyder Ally Cawn in
the Balagaut waged a war against Basalut Jung and other
country powers, and after he obliged them to pay him certain
sums of money, marched against Moraryraw and beseiged his
capital Gutty.'** It is thought that the matters will be
accomodated between them.
" His Lordship got our garrison placed in the Tanjore Fort,
and it is said that the King is set at liberty, and that the country
will be soon restored to him . . ."
" MUDOO KiSTNA."
[Autograph, 2 pp., 4,to.]
(1) John Sulivan. Vide No. 19, p. 29, note 3.
(2) Qulntiu Crauford. Vide No. 204, p. 216, note 1.
(3) John Macpherson. Vide No. 270, p. 263, note 2.
(*) Qooty (Guti), a town in the Anantapur District,
271
[No. 279.]
A. Venkata to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 17th, Madrass. — The grant of " the village
of Amurampadoo dependant on [the] " Seven Magaiinums," 'i'
which you were pleased to make to me, has been recognized
by your successors, and the Charity connected with the temple
is maintained. Mr. Stone has helped me to overcome a difficulty
with the Durbar by settling the rents of the village, and I hope
you will ask him and Mr. Stratton to support me in the event
of any interference by the servants of the Nawab.
" Amerambadoo Venkaty."
" Dubash to Mrs, Palk."
[Holograph, 2 pp., ito.]
[No. 280.]
J[ohn] M[axwell] Stone to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 21st, Fort St. George. — I advise the despatch
of a First of exchange by Mr. Arthur Owen,'^' who sails from
Pondicherry in the Aquilon. The Second will be conveyed by
Mr. John Sulivan*^' in the Ajax.
" J. M. Stone."
[Autograph, 1 p., 4io.]
[No. 281. J
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, February 23rd, Fort St. George. — " The Hillsboroug[h],
with Mr. and Mrs. Vansittart on board, was dispatched hence
for Europe the 16th instant, but on account of light or un-
favorable winds she did not get out of sight till the 20th . . .
This letter comes by Captain Pegou, late of the Huntingdon.
He with Mr. Whitehill and John Sulivan go passengers in the
old Ajax, now a French Indiaman. A Mrs. Draper'*' of Bombay
(who is a niece of Mr. Whitehill's) accompanyes them. They all
set out for Pondicherry to-morrow . . .
" We have now a garrison in Tan jour. The King is said to
(1) The " Seven Magans " of Tripassore, from Tarn, maganam, a small revenue
area of about six villages.
(2) In 1778 " Mr. Arthtir Owen," Aide-de-camp to Sir Eyre Coote, was granted
by the Directors a brevet lieut. -colonelcy on the Bengal establishment. He came
to India with Coote at the end of that year, accompanied him to Madras in 1780,
and commanded a brigade at the second battle of PoUlur. Owen was with Coote
at the time of the General's death in 1783.
(3) Vide No. 19, p. 29, note S.
(*) Eliza Draper, bom at Anjengo in 1744, was the daughter of May Sclater,
who had married a sister of John Whitehill. EUza became the wife of Daniel
Draper of the Bombay civil service. When on a visit to England in 1765, she met
-Laurence Sterne, with whom she corresponded. She returned to India in 1767,
and about 1773 eloped from Bombay in a, ship commanded by Sir John Clarke.
Mrs. Draper went first to her uncle Thomas WhitehiU, of the Bombay service, and
afterwards to his brother John at Masulipatam. She accompanied the latter in
1776 to England, where she died two years later.
No. 281.] 272
be at large ; but what the terms are on which the Nabob made
the surrender, or on which the King has been restored, I am
utterly ignorant. The transactions of the Board are kept
abundantly more secret than they were in the former reign.
The Board has struck off all the half batta from the garrisons
which had that emolument heretofore, save only that of the
commanding officer. You will readyly suppose this will not
be considered as a popular act by the army."
Crauford is now in charge at Masulipatam, but the appoint-
ment of Chief will probably go ultimately to Russell, though the
latter is at present one of the Committee of Circuit,
[Holograph, 4 pp., flscp.] " George Bakee."
[No. 282.]
Rich[ar]d Goodlad<i> to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, March 16th, Dinagepoor. — Both my brothers have had
the privilege of corresponding with you. I now follow their
example, and hope you will forgive me for not having done so
earlier. I am Persian Translator to the Revenue Council at
this place, where I have been for two years. My brother
Anthony is well.
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4to.] " R. Goodlad."
[No. 283.]
Robert Palk, jun., to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, March 21st, Calcutta. Received 28th October. — " I
received your favor of the 9th April. It had been so well
ducked in the salt water that itjjwas with great difficulty I could
make it out. The packet was dispatched from Madras on a
country vessel which was lost near Annoar'^' together with the
greatest part of her cargo"?. . .
" Tom, I believe, can give the best account of himself. He
has lately taken me in to pay a debt of 2,000 Rs. for him to
Mr. Whynch, money it seems he borrowed of Mr. W. on the
footing of an allowance from you, which he was called on to
repay ; and rather than plead inability, he chose to draw the
money from me by representing that he had incurred several
small debts to that amount at Madras for necessarys which he
could not do without, &c. I paid the money, but I must confess,
had I known the real state of the case, I should have told him
that Mr. Whynch was better able to wait his time of payment
than myself. I am informed that Mr. Russell is appointed to
Masulipatam. In that case I will request he will take Mr.
Thomas under his protection and employ his time well. I
believe Whitehill and Sulivan were as well please[d] to let him
live in idleness.
(1) Richard Goodlad, brother of William Martin Goodlad and Anthony Goodlad,
(2) flnnore, 12 miles north of Madras,
273 [No. 283.
" I am writing with aching bones. Harry and I got overset
in a ditch last night returning from town in the midst of a
violent storm . . ."
" Robert Palk."
[Holograph, 3 pp., ito.]
[No. 284.]
Sir Edw[ar]d Hughes to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, March 22nd, Bombay. — I received your letter of the
11th April by the ship Grenville, which brought Lord Pigot to
Madras, and am surprised you had had no letters from me.
" Though I sailed from Madras four days before the arrival of the
Supreme Council and Judges, I waited in the mouth of the river
and never sett my foot on shore till I did so with them at
Calcutta. They were well pleased with us, and have continued
so ; I wish I could say as much among themselves. Indeed I
have had that good fortune at all the Company's Settlements,
making their welfare my great object.
" The climate agrees perfectly with me. I go early to bed,
rise the same, and very seldom chevaux [sic]. I am told Lord
Pigot brings regulations respecting Tanjour, but am afraid not
very pleasing to the poor Nabob, who certainly merits every
attention from the English, being in my opinion their most
sincere friend in this country. Nor has Colonel Upton been
able to procure one article for him in his late negociation with
the Mharattas. You will hear much said of this Treaty ; that
Ragobah has been able to get little security and no share in
the government : in short, the Presidency of Bombay made a
treaty with him to support his attempt, which that of Fort
William disapproved and sent a deputy to make peace, which
was concluded and signed at Poonah the 1st of this instant.
What they look upon [as] the view and intention of the Court
of Directors [is] that, if Salsette and Bassein could not be acquired
by treaty, it should not be by force. Yet the presence of the
squadron has had its use at this juncture. Docked and refitted,
I shall return next month to Madras.
" Here I must tell you your nephew'^' is perfectly well, a fine
lad and will make a very clever man in our profession. He
wants for nothing ; has just paid me a week's visit on shore.
The demands of so very few ships are so trifling I cannot serve
you as you desire, or be assured I would do it. I hear Mr.
Vansittart and family are gone home : he was very busy when
I was in Bengal . . ."
" Edwd. Hughes."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4to.]
(1) Richard WeUand. Vide No. 259, p. 254, note 1,
274
[No. 285.]
H[enry] Vansittart, jun., to Robert Palk, Esqr., Park Place,
London. „
1776, March 30th, Calcutta. — I have received your letter of
the 4th April, and beg to assure you that, notwithstanding my
former ill-chosen words, I am very sensible of your goodness
to me. I now renew my request that you will be so kind
as to undertake the management of my affairs in England.
" I shall be obliged if you will present my duty to Mrs. Palk,
and love to Nancy, Lawrence, Kitty and the unknown. <i'
Your dutiful nephew,
"H. Vansittart."
[Holograph, If p., Uo. Wax seal with arms.']
[No. 286.]
Dan[ie]l Corneille'2) to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, June 11th, St. Helena.— Your letter of the 27th
February has reached me, and its enclosures for Messrs. Wynch
and Vansittart have been delivered. " I have been made happy
in the acquaintance of the only part of the Vansittart family
before unknown to me, as they have been in my house during
their stay upon this island. The good example you have set
me of four little ones I am endeavouring to follow. My present
family consist of two boys and one girl, besides one upon the
stocks that will make his or her appearance in three months;
after which, having followed your example, I aspire to no further
wish of greater perfection ..."
" Danl. Corneille."
[Holograph, 2 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 287.]
H.H. the Nawab Walajah to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, June 20th, Chepauk.— " His Highness the Nabob
Wallaujau, Ummeer ul Hindh, Omdaht ul Mulk, Ausuph ud
Doulah, Anweer ud Been Cawn Bahauder, Zuphur Jung, Sepah
Salaur, Subahdar of the Carnatick, to Robert Palk, Esqr.
" I have received your friendly letter of the 17th November
last. It arrived at a time I was under great uneasiness of mind,
and gave me great comfort. I am much obliged to you for
your promises to assist Colonel Macleane'^* in my affairs. I
have already acquainted you with the arrival of Lord Pigot
and his bringing the Company's order in regard to Tanjore.
Though the Fort was provided with all kinds of military stores,
(1) Bmelia Palk, born 1774.
(2) Daniel Corneille was Lieut. Governor of St. Helena. He became Governor
of the Island in 1782.
(3) Colonel Lauchlan Macleane Vide No, 169, p. 189, note 2.
275 [No. 287.
I put it into his Lordship's hands without any difficulty, and
gave no opposition to my friends the Company, but submitted
to them the state of affairs here. Every gentleman here
evidently perceives that it is his Lordship's intention to distress
and disgrace me, and he has seized every opportunity of injuring
my affairs and of hurting my honor and authority ; and though
I am the firmest ally to his Majesty, the Company and the
nation that they have in this country, his Lordship has reduced
me to a situation not to be described. The Gentlemen here as
well as at Bengal have much disapproved of his Lordship's
conduct. I place great dependance upon your assistance, as
you are my old friend, and were you here now you would protect
my honor from his Lordship's insults ; and I now hope that
you will explain these matters to your friends, and take measures
for giving me redress. As the ship in which this goes sails
immediately, I can not now write at length, but I have desired
that Colonel Macleane will acquaint you fully with Lord Pigot's
behaviour. Mr. Salmon, who will deliver this letter, has been
an eye witness to his Lordship's proceedings. Sir Edward
Hughes has acquainted me with what you wrote to him about
my affairs, and I am much obliged to you for it.
" What can I say more ? "
" P.S. — The reason of his Lordship's great displeasure towards
me is this : — The order which he brought here in regard to
Tanjore, to answer private views of his own, was prejudicial to
the Company and the publick business ; and though I made no
opposition to it, and wanted only to explain the true state of
my affairs and my rights, and the prejudice that would attend
my business, his Lordship endeavoured to shut up my mouth,
as he thought that my representations would prevent him from
pursueing his private interest ; but I have laid a true state of
affairs before his Lordship, and before the Company also.
What he now constantly does is with a view of destroying my
honor and my rights."
[3 J pp.,flscp. Endorsed " Nabob, 20th June, 1776. Received
22nd June, 1777." The outer cover, which is addressed to " Robert
Palk, Esq., Bruton Street," is marked "Duplicate of letter
of the 20th June," and is endorsed " Detained till 9th June,
having been enclosed in a packet directed to Colonel Macleane
(by the Grenville). L.M." The cover bears a wax seal inscribed
in Persian character with the titles of the Nawab nearly as set
forth at the head of his letter. The original letter appears to have
been received on the Srd February, 1777.]
[No. 288.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, June 20th, Madras. Received 5th February, 1777.—
" I have received your favor of the 15th December, and waited
on the Nabob myself with your letter, who seemed very happy
at your expressions of friendship, and puts great relyance in
No. 288.] 276
your assistance. He has of late been in a very disagreable,
nay distressful! situation. The part Lord Pigot had to act of
delivering up Tanjore naturally occasioned a distance between
them. Two months after his Lordship's arrival the Nabob
consented to deliver up Tanjore Fort to an English garrison :
he could not be prevailed upon to go further. Lord Pigot,
after trying in vain for near two months more to perswade the
Nabob to surrender the countrey to the Rajah, he went down
himself, being vested by the Council with the powers of a
deputation for reinstating the Rajah, and he was declared
Commander in Chief of all the garrisons he went through.
Messrs. Dalrymple'^' and Jourdan*^' accompanyed his Lordship,
but they were simple companions, the former doing all his
business. The Rajah was accordingly reinstated on the 11th
of April. The Nabob had assigned the revenues of Tanjore
proceeding from the February crop of grain to Europeans and
others to the amount of, as it is currently reported, fifteen
or sixteen lacks of pagodas. Mr. Benfield had the largest
Tanakaw ; Mr. Monckton, George Smith, Adams, De Souza
and others had also. The grain was a great part cutt and
received by the Tanakawholders. However, it did not signifie :
the Rajah's people, supported by our troops, possessed
themselves of it. Since Lord Pigot's return there has been some
division in Council, and the Majority was that the Tanakaws
should be paid. The Nabob having applyed to Sir Edward
Hughes for his protection, alledging that he apprehended
violence from Lord Pigot, has prevented his Lordship from
going to him of late. The Supreme Council has also wrote to
the Governor and Council here, disapproving Lord Pigot's
sending for the Dabir'^' away by a military force from the
Nabob's territorys. He was manager for the Rajah, and since
for the Nabob, of the Tanjore country, and he was ordered
away to Alianore just before Lord Pigot got to Tanjore.
" These disagreements render the Settlement unhappy, and
affects credit very much, and I am afraid the breach between
Lord Pigot and the Nabob is so wide that it will hardly be closed.
I apprehend things were pushed rather too far. The Tanakaws
was a matter of such general concern to the Settlement that it
interests almost every body, and has occasioned much uneasiness.
Such is our situation at present, and no doubt very different
things will be wrote by the different partys. The Nabob's
character will on the one side be made out as a dissipating
intriguing man aiming fast towards independence ; and his
own partizans will represent him as ill treated and oppressed
grandure. It is very certain that the Nabob is so very different
a character now, both in his political as well as personal
capacity, to what he was 14 years ago that the method of
(1) Alexander DalrymiJle. Vide No. 263, p. 257, note 2.
(2) Francis Jourdan. Vide No. 33, p. 54, note 1.
'3' Dabir, Pers., secretary.
277 [No. 288.
treating him then can't be any ways proper at present. A
vigorous Administration can easily contain the Nabob within
the proper bounds, at the same time that he should not be
lowered too much in the eyes of the publick, particularly the
natives. It is certain that he has not the least notion of order,
regularity or oeconomy in his finances, and if our Government
could settle the revenues and expences of the Nabob on a
proper reasonable footing, it will be the greatest service they
could render the pubUck as well as the Nabob. It will be a[n]
arduous as well as a very deUcate imdertaking : however, in
my humble opinion better worth attempting than many things
else which causes ill blood and no real advantage. Your
assisting the Nabob in this time of perturbation to him will be
very acceptable . . .
" A peace was concluded with the Morattas the 1st of May." <i'
" John d 'Fries."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Uo.l
[No. 289.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, June 27th, Fort St. George. — " Since mine of the 2nd
February last . . .Lord Pigot, Mr. Dalrymple, Mr. Jourdan,
Captains Wood*^* and Thomson and one or two officers and
doctors, with a battalion of seapoys and fifty European cavalry,
and Moodu Kastnah, &c., set out from hence the 28th of March
to Tonjore. And also his Lordship desired Chippermall Chitty,
Sunca Rama Chitty and me from this place, and Irshepah Chitty
and Sree Salupudy from Cuddalore to accompany him. We
did accordingly, and we all, in company with his Lordship,
arrived at Tonjore the 8th April, and the ceremony at the time
of the restoration of the Rajah is wrote in a seperate paper and
enclosed herein. And by what I heard and saw, the poor Rajah
has been treated very ill by the Nabob's people taking every
thing from him, and left him in a small place in his palace, and
he had only one turband and no coat to put on, or any kind
of Jewells or any household furniture. They hardly left the
copper potts and things commonly used in their necessary
affairs, and also took away every kind of Jewells from the
Rajah's women, and left them with black beeds on their necks,
and with very few clouts and very poor allowance daily given
them. He could hardly maintain his family and attendants.
Several of his relations and people were kept close prisoners,
and they were released after his Lordship's arrival there ;
but most of the people thanked the Nabob for keeping the King
so long with life. That he would not have done if it were not
(1) An error for 1st March. Cf. No. 284, p. 273.
(2) Captain Robert Wood, Town Major of Port St. George.
No. 289.] 278
for his promise, when that place was taken by our forces, to
the Governor and Council and General Smith. All which gave
much concern to his Lordship and the rest of the gentlemen to
see the Rajah in such miserable condition as the Nabob's
people treated him, and his Lordship was so gracious as to buy
a pullenkeen, a horse and a dagger, and presented them to the
Rajah, and afterwards remained at Tonjore about 18 days . . .
" Comaroo, who was dubash to Mr. Hay'^' at Trichinopoly,
and after Mr. Hay went home he served Mr. Benfield and acted
in the saucar business ; and I hear that he played several
tricks with the Rajah and hurted the kingdom in several
respects before the place was taken . . . And now he went,
with his Lordship's leave, to Tonjore with us, and as soon as
he got there, that very same night he went to the Rajah in
the middle of the night and told him ... as soon as he get
the country to let him have the management, and that he will
advance what money he wants . . . His Lordship was informed
of it, and sent for the said Comaroo . . . and ordered him to
receive 10 or twelve lashes, and told him to go about his
business . . .
"I, in company with Chippermall Chitty and Irshepah
Chitty . . . went to see Trichinopoly, Seerangam and Jemboo
Kistnah, where I heard bj^ the English gentlemen there that
the Maravars of Ramanadapurum and Shivagunga are prisoners
there, with very poor allowances given to them by the Nabob's
people ..."
The Nawab received private intelligence last September of
the Company's intention to restore Tanjore. " Therefore he
collected most of the revenues produced in that country as fast
as he could, and afterwards gave Tanaca or draft to Mr. Benfield,
Mr. Monckton and several other English gentlemen for a
considerable sum, upwards of twenty lacks of pagodas . . .
After the country was put under the Rajah's management . . .
these gentlemen that lent the above sums to the Nabob repre-
sented their case to the Board and demanded Tanaca from the
Rajah, for which the Governor and Council met in council
several times, and have not brought it to a conclusion yet.
But once seven Gentlemen in Council were of one side, and Lord
Pigot, Mr. Dawson, Mr. Russell, Mr. Dalrymple and Mr. Stone
on another side, that is seven against five. The Majority gave
their opinion that the Tonjore Rajah must discharge all the
Tanaca that was granted by the Nabob, and Lord Pigot and
four Gentlemen in Council on the other side gave their opinion
that the Rajah or the country of Tonjore had no thing to do
with the Nabob's Tanaca, but the Nabob must be accountable
for it . . . The Nabob may discharge the above Tanacas if he
pleases, but he will not do it before the Company send out
positive orders to him to do so. The Nabob's intention is to
ruin the Rajah again, though the country was delivered up to
<1) James Hay. Vide No. 230, p. 285, note 2.
279 [No. 289.
him . . , but the poor Rajah has no other aid and assistance,
but intirely depends on your honour's and the Company's
protection.
"Mr. Dawson resigned the service . . . Mr. Monckton has
married Lord Pigot's eldest daughter'" March last. Lord
Pigot carrys on his government with much civility . . . There
was a peace concluded between our Government of Bombay
and the great Marattas, and every thing settled in our favour . ."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph original, 3| pp.,flscp., and duplicate, 4 pp., Uo.]
[Enclosure]. " Tonjore, 11th April, 1776.
" It is the Right Honourable Lord Pigot's orders that the
following Proclamation, this day made publick on the restoration
of the Rajah to the Musnud, be read at the head of each corps
and explained the seapoys of the different battalions at 7
o'clock."
" By Order. (Signed) Robeet Wood, Aid de Camp."
[Proclamation.]
" The Right Honourable Lord Pigot, President of the Council
for affairs of the East India Company on the Coast of
Choromandal, and Governor of Fort St. George, &c., to all whom
it may concern.
" Whereas a Treaty was concluded in 1762 between the
Nabob of the Carnatick and the Rajah of Tonjore, to which
Treaty the English became guarantee, and whereas, in direct
violation of the above Treaty, the troops of the East India
Company, at the instigation of the said Nabob, did remove the
Rajah from his government : the East India Company, dis-
approving the conduct of their servants, have thought proper
to require that the Rajah be again restored. And in virtue of
the orders of the said Company all officers, civil and military,
and all persons under the protection of the said Company are
hereby required to consider the Rajah of Tonjore as again
restored to the government of his country in the full extent
of that government as at the conclusion of the Treaty in 1762,
and to give him all proper aid and assistance. Dated in
Tonjore the 11th day of April, 1776."
" (Signed) Pigot."
" The Rajah made his appearance a quarter before three in
the afternoon. On his appearance on the parade he was
saluted with 21 guns, and then was carried round the capital
streets accompanyed by the troop of cavalry, the Grandier
Company [of] Europeans, the Artillary two guns, and six com-
panys of Grandier Seapoys, His Lordship, &c. On the Rajah's
return he went round the square, [and] was saluted by all the
officers as he went round. On his going in[to the] Palace a
second [salute] and three volleys of small arms by [the] whole
(1) Sophia Kgot.
No. 289.1 280
[of the] troops. And at 8 o'clock at night the Rajah, in
company with his Lordship, Messrs. Dalrymple, Jourdan,
Benfiield and Chambers,*'' Colonel Harper,!^) Captains Wood
and Thomson set at the Cuchery'^' and read the above pro-
clamation in Maratty language in the presence of all the
Madrass Merchants and the people of that place ; and then all
the Madrass Merchants went with his Lordship, named Moodu
Kistnah, Chippermall Chitty, Chocapah Chitty, Sunca Ramy
Chitty, Arnachella Chitty, Gandavady Suby Chitty, Bugavan
Puntuloo and Ballumoodu Chitty ; and Sree Salupuddy and
Irshepah Chitty of [the] Cuddalore Merchants— they all paid
their respects to the Rajah with the usual Nuzar'*' of few
pagodas and few gold mohurs, and received beetlenut and
roeswater \sic] as customary. Thus ended the ceromoney."
[2 pp., Mo.]
[No. 290.]
Edmund Veale Lane to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, July 11th, Tannah. — " You will, long ere this reaches
you, have the news and particulars of the dishonorable and
wretched Treaty*^' concluded by the Supreme Council's Plenipo
with the Ministerial Party of the Marrattahs, by which we have
violated the national honor and made our faith justly doubted
by every Prince in India ; and, what is more immediately felt
by the Companj^ all our acquisitions . . are given up. Out
of the whole there is only reserved about Broach a territory of
three lacks annually, and the islands of Salsette and Caranjar.'^'
There surely was never ought so fatal to this Settlement, for
besides the great loss in returning a rich tract of country, we
are at this time forced to be nearly at the same expense as we
were when there was war, for the wretches with whom this
notable treaty was made neither seem to be inclined, or appear
to be able, to fullfill their engagements, none of their officers
scarce obeying their orders.
" As they are disunited among themselves, and attacked
from without by Hyder Ally, and likewise have, in many parts
of the dominions they have left, a number of civil broils to engage
their attention, therefore it is quite a doubt if the peace will
last, or even those who made it will be there to answer for it,
as lately one of the Peshwah family, who for a long while
managed the Morattah government under Nannah,''' by name
(1) William Chambers. Vide No. 263, p. 258, note 3.
(2) Lt.-Col. Humphrey Harper, Madras Infantry. Vide No. 270, p. 264, note 5.
(3) Cuchery, cuicherry, from Hind, kachahri, offtce of administration, court-house.
(*) Nuzar, from Pers. nazar, a complimentary present.
(5) The Treaty of Purandhar.
(6) Karanja, on the east side of Bombay harbour.
(') Nannah, Nana, the appellation of the Peshwa, the chief miniater of the Raja,
and the virtual ruler. The office of Peshwa was held, at the time referred to, by
Balaji Baji Rao (1740—1761).
281 [No. 290.
Sudabah,'^' who, having lost a battle in Hindostan about the
year 1759 against the Abdallahs,'^* and being wounded and
taken, underwent a severe and long captivity ; but at last
gaining his liberty, returned to Poonah nine years ago, where
by the means of the people now at the head of affairs at that
Durbar, he was treated as an impostor, loaded with irons and
confined in a fort. But the confusion caused by the intestine
disputes of the Marrattahs has at last given an opportunity to
Sudabah's friends to effect his release, and he is now at the head
of between 15 and 20 thousand men. He pretends to be an
enemy to none, but only a well wisher to the Peshwah family,
of which he is one. It is, however, believed he is not very sincere
in the former, and that he will get the better of the Ministry,
which should he do, as Ragonath Row and him were always
the best, of friends, it is generally thought the latter (who is
now left destitute on a trifling allowance from the Company)
will get a share in the government, if the child, <^* as the
Ministerial Party pretend, be really the late Prince's ; and on
the contrary, if an impostor, it is impossible to say how it will
go, for the throne of so large an empire is too great a temptation
to be lightly given up. Time therefore can only determine it.
" However, at any rate the Company are great sufferers by
the pacifick inclinations of the Supreme [Government], for
though there is a peace concluded, we in no shape benefit by
it, but, as I before observed, labour under every disadvantage
of a war, though without the advantage of it . . ."
[Holograph, 7 pp., 4to.] " Edmund Veale Lane."
[Enclosure]. Letter, dated 4th June, from Mr. Griffith,
Attorney for Mr. Boddam, to E. V. Lane about remitting to
England the amount of Lane's debt to Robert Palk.
[No. 291.]
Lieut. J. Snelling to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.. near Exeter.
1776, July 13th, Chicacole. — I beg to be favoured with letters
of recommendation to influential persons at Madras, such as
Mr. Jourdan and Mr. Claud Russell, in view to my being
appointed to a regiment as Quartermaster or Adjutant, or to
the command of an outpost. Lieutenants are now in a worse
position than Ensigns were formerly, owing to the withdrawal
of half-batta.
[Holograph, 3 pp., Uo.] " J. Snelling."
(1) Sudasheo Ghimnaji, known as Sudaba, a famous chief and a cousin of Raghol)a,
was second in command of the iJarathas at the battle of Panipat in 1761, wlien ho
was reported missing. The man calling himself Sudaba who appeared three years
later was an impostor. After long imprisonment this person escaped in April,
1776, gained credence of a large following, collected an army, secured possession of
the Konkan, and was countenanced by the Government of Bombay. In October
he was routed, and yielded himself to Baghoji Angria. The latter delivered him to
the ministers at Poona, who put him to death.
(2) The Abdalis were Afghans, who fought under Ahmad Shah Abdali at the
battle of Panipat.
(3) The alleged posthumous son of the murdered Peshwa Narayan Rao.
282
[No. 292.]
Lieut. John Yarde'd to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1776, August 16th, Barhampore. — All military appointments
are now in the hands of the General, who is unfavourable to
officers recommended to Mr. Hastings. I am now nearing
promotion to Captain. " Nothing material has happened since
I wrote you last, but we are in hopes, if things take a change,
that we shall have a Maharatta war, which will make the army
all alive again ..."
{Holograph, 3 pp.. Mo.] " John Yarde."
[No. 293.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, August 30th, Fort St. George. — " I heard from Mr.
Palk at Bengali under date the third instant . . . Colonel
Monson was very ill. The Vizier's troops haveing mutinied
for want of pay, and some of our officers haveing been lent him
for the discipline of those troops, it is said some five or six of
them suffered on the occasion. After some time had elapsed . .
two battalions of our seapoys had a warm skirmish, or rather a
pitched action, with eight or ten battalions of the Vizier's, in
which the latter were worsted and suffered a good deal. The
commanding officer of our troops has been called down to
Calcutta to account either for fighting against orders or without
them . . . This must not alarm Mr. Kennaway for his sons :
I have heard from them both since this happened.
" The Supreme Council have concluded a Treaty with the
Ministerial Party at Poonah, by which Raganout Row is
precluded from any share of the government, but allowed a
jaghire for his support, though he himself does not accede to
the terms. Since this treaty was concluded another chief,'^'
who was supposed to be dead, has made his appearance. He is
a man banished by a former faction, but now generally acknow-
ledged as the next heir to the Poonah government. Those are
the accounts from the other coast of about the beginning of
this month, by which we are also told that Mr. Hornby'^' was
then about dispatching a small packet (by the southern passage)
to Siiez for Europe. By this channel letters of the middle of
May last arrived at Bombay on or about the 1st instant from
England for Mr. Hastings, and were immediately forwarded from
thence to Bengali, where they are probably ere now arrived . . .
" At our Presidency for the last few months there has been
much to do. . . liOrd Pigot arrived here on the ninth of last
December to the, in appearance, very great satisfaction of the
Settlement, and certainly to the real satisfaction of a very great
majority of it. By pacifick though firm and determined
(1) John Yarde. Vide No. 5<t, p. 80, note 2.
l2) Sudaba. Gf. No. 290, p. 281, note 1.
(3) William Hornby, Governor of Bombay.
283 [No. 293.
measures he got the Nabob to withdraw his garrison from
Taiijore, and to consent to the Company's placeing one there
themselves. This was done in last February. The remaining
part of that month and all March was spent in prevailing on
the Nabob to give the country up to the Rajah . . . About
the end of March or the beginning of April I/ord Pigot was
deputed by the Board, and set out hence to execute the Com:
pany's orders as to the restoration of the Rajah to his throne
and kingdom, and which was, I think, done on or about the
9th of April. Dalryijiple and Jourdan accompanyed him,
but were not of the deputation. The business effected, his
Lordship returned here about the end of April or the beginning
of May, and . . . made his report to the Board. This . . . was
received without any invidious remarks or publick dis-
approbation, but . . . soon after the cloud began to gather.
" A black man of this place, whose name is Comerah, and
who was dubash to Mr. Hay while Paj^master at Thrichinopolly,
had in that capacity been very usefull to that gentleman in
the acquisition of a very competent fortune, and in the course
of the business (being, though young, very acute) had gained
great knowledge and influence in the Tanjore country. On
Mr. Hay's going home, and after the capture of Tanjore, this
man was sought for by many. Mr. Benfield afforded him the
largest field of action, and under the auspices of, perhaps in
conjunction with, Mr. Wynch, imployed him in negociating
money matters in the Tanjore country to a vast amount ;
which, together with the countenance given him by the Nabob,
. . . gave him in that country the consequence of a Basha.
" The Nabob, for prosecuting the siege of Tanjore and paying
the prize money after it was taken, had borrowed of Benfield
six lacks and seventy thousand pagodas, for the repayment
of which he had assigned the produce of certain districts of
that coxintry ; and this Comerah was imployed there by Benfield
to collect it. When it came under consideration to send a
deputation for the restoration of the Rajah, Comerah was (by
his master) called down . . . His Lordship desired him to
stay till he himself went up. But as this neither suited his,
his master's or the Nabob's purposes, he set off, got before, and,
was found there when Lord Pigot arrived at Tanjore ; which,
with some remonstrances made against him by the Rajah, . . .
tempted Lord Pigot in an unguarded moment to corporally
punish him with twelve lashes in a publick manner. This
furnished fuel for a future flame.
" The Nabob's manager of the Tanjore country being then
at some distance from the capital. Lord Pigot conceived a
notion of getting from him the account of the revenues, &c.,
received ; and in order thereto sent a party of horse to secure
either him or the accounts. But the man ... set off for, and
got within the confines of the Carnatick before he was overtaken,
notwithstanding which, he or his accounts were seized. This
No. 293.] 284
furnished the Nabob with a very specious pretext (perhaps a just
one) for complaint, and of which he made the most by addressing
the Board here and the Supreme Council at Bengali ... in
terms of strong resentment.
" The Nabob's reception of Lord Pigot on his arrival was in
appearance the most cordial and affectionate. One day, after
Lord Pigot had breakfasted with him at an elegant table, the
Nabob sent him the tea service of rich gold and silver plate that
he had been entertained with ; which he, after some hesitation,
and to preserve as far as might be a good understanding,
accepted. By the best account I can get it was worth from
three to five thousand pagodas. But the value has been much
exaggerated, and Lord Pigot has been threatened by Benfield
with a prosecution for venality . . .
" The Nabob . . . very artfully led on Lord Pigot by one
finess or other from December to April to delay his departure
for Tan j ore till that period, with an intention ... to collect,
or permit his creditors to collect, in discharge of his debt what
they could of the crop of grain ... As the grain had been cut
and stacked, it was marked with Mr. Benfield's chop'^' and
claimed as his property. About the time the Rajah was restored
this grain was demanded of Lord Pigot by Benfield, but it seems
the Rajah applyed it to his own purpose. Benfield calls it a
violent seizure of British property by Lord Pigot, and declares
he shall be made by law to account to him for the whole. Lord
Pigot says it was a transaction of the Rajah's, and what he
has nothing to say to.
" Here then is the bone of contention. Benfield and that
part of the Council who support his cause say that this grain,
assigned to his creditors by the Nabob, should have gone in
discharge of his debt, but as it did not, the Rajah ought to be
made to pay it. Lord Pigot and his party say ; — Let the Nabob
produce his accounts ... of the Tan j ore country, and if there
is any thing remains unpaid we consent that the Rajah of Tan j ore
be made to pay it ; but if the Nabob will not produce his
accounts, let the whole be referred to the Company, and wait
their determination. This Benfield and his party will not
agree to ... .
" After much warm debate. . . . Benfield's (or if you please
Sir Robert's)'^' party carryed their point of sending Colonel
Stuart*^' to command at Tanjore ... to assist them there in
recovering this money from the Rajah. Next, the scale turned
the other way, and Lord Pigot's party got Russell appointed
Resident there, he being the man they wished to be with the
King. A few days only elapsed when Russell was, in con-
d' Chop, stamp, die ; from Hind, chhdpna, to print.
(2) Brig.-General Sir Robert Fletcher, commanding tlie Madras Army. Vide
No. 141, p. 163, note 2.
(3) Colonel James Stuart, after 29 years' service in the British Army, was
appointed by the Company to he second in command at Fort St. George, where he
arrived in May, 1776. He had seen active service in Nova Scotia ia 1758, and
subsequently iu the West Indies.
285 [No. 298.
sequence of the Company's orders, directed to go on the circuit.
Now things grew serious . . . Sir Robert's party was the"
Majority (though, as he was ill, he did not always attend Council)
and orders were drawn out for Colonel Stuart to proceed to
Tanjore. They lay on the table ready for signing, but the
President would not sign them. After much altercation the
Secretary*!' was (by Sir Robert's party, who was the Majority)
directed to sign them for the President. But the Secretary did
not think it safe to do so without a written order. An order
for that purpose was accordingly drawn out, and Stratton and
Brooke haveing signed it (as the rest of the Majority were
going to do) Lord Pigot desired to see the paper before Brooke
had (as he was in the very act of doing) given it to Floyer ; and
haveing thus received it, drew another paper out of his pocket
containing a charge against Brooke and Stratton for signing
such an order without the President's . . . consent, and
immediately moved that they should be suspended the service
for it ; which they accordingly were by Lord Pigot's casting
voice. Sir Robert, being ill, was not present.
" This transaction happened late in' the afternoon of the 22nd
of this month of August. The Council broke up immediately,
and Sir Robert's party met at his house on, Choultry Plain*^'
that evening, where they stayed till midnight ; then retired,
and met at five next morning. Lord Pigot summoned a Council
for that forenoon . . . but left Stratton and Brooke out of the
summons. Lord Pigot's party met accordingly. . . The other
party did not come, but about noon sent a Notary Publick with
a strong protest against the expulsion of Stratton and Brooke
. . . , declared the nullity of Lord Pigot's and the Minority's
powers, and asserted that the Government rested in them, the
Majority . . . The party, or Council if you please, broke up
with an intention to consider of the matter till Monday the'26th.
But while they were at dinner a letter was brought to Lord
Pigot by a gentleman who had received it from Sir Robert's
party, chargeing him as a Company's servant not to regard any
orders of the Minority, as the Government was regularly vested
in them the Majority, and that they expected his obedience.
This induced Lord Pigot's party to assemble in Council again
after dinner. While they were there the officer of the Main
Guard brought in another letter to the same purport addressed
to him as such. And soon after it was known that similar
letters had been circulated to all in office, civil and military.
This Lord Pigot, &c., considered as sowing sedition and tending
to raise a mutiny in the garrison ; and then on that ground
(Sir Robert being first put in arrest by Lord Pigot, &c.) they
suspended the whole of his party. This last transaction
happened on the 23rd in the evening.
(1) Richard Joseph Sulivan. Vide No. 19, p. 29, note 3.
(2) Choultry Plain extended for 3i mUes S.W. of Port St. George towards tlie
Mount, and was the principal residential locality of the period. It was so called
from a Choultry on the main road 2^ miles from the Port.
No. 293.] 286
" On Sir Robert being put under arrest by Lord Pigot, &c.,
they offered the command of the Army to Colonel Stuart (as I
believe the other pa'rty did also . . .). Stuart desired a little
time to consider of it. In the evening of the 23rd he accepted
of the command from Lord Pigot, &c. . . . and came to
breakfast with him at the Gardens, where I happened to be
also. After breakfast Lord Pigot and Stuart withdrew and
had some conversation together, but they parted soon, and some
time after met again in the Council Room. After which they
with others dined together, and I think went to Council again
after dinner, where they sat till the evening. On breaking up
Lord Pigot desired Stuart to sup with him at the Gardens,
which the other readyly accepted, but said he was at a loss for
a conveyance, as his servants had disappointed him of his
carriage. Stone told him his was at Stuart's service, but he
declined it and said as his Lordship was going out himself he
begged leave to accompany him. Pigot gladly accepted of his
company. They set off together about J past seven in the
evening. In passing over the Island, Captain Lysaght'^' stepped
up from the side of the 'road and stopped the carriage with a
. pistol in his hand, and told Lord Pigot he was his, Lysaght's,
prisoner. At the same instant came up Captain Edington*^'
with a party of seapoys to support Lysaght. Then Stuart told
Pigot in those words to Get out, get out. Pigot said (speaking
to Stuart), You have deceived me. They then put him into a
close chaise, prepared and at hand for the purpose, and Lysaght,
attended by an orderly, set off full speed with him. He asked
where they meant to carry him. They said. To the Mount ;
which they accordingly did, and delivered him to Major Horne,*^'
then in cantonment there with about 2 or 3 hundred artillery.
This happened in the evening of the 24th August.
" The principal officers of the garrison had their Que. Stuart
returned to them immediately, and his Council, if I may call it
such, was into Town and in the Council Room immediately after
him. The military were told [that]. Sir Robert being ill, Stuart
commanded ; and he with his dependants very luckily preserved
such order as to prevent any blood being shed.
" All the members of the Council slept in the Council Room
that night, and the next morning, vizt. the 25th August, a
paper was circulated informing the publick that the then
Government desired the Company's civil and military servants,
as well as the inhabitants in general, to attend at the Council
Room at 11 that day ; which being accordingly done by most,
a proclamation was read to them and afterwards affixed at the
Seagate, setting forth the reasons for the measures which had
been taken ; and Mr. Stratton, after haveing been thus pro-
claimed Governor of Fort St. George and President of the Council,
(1) Captain Arthur Lysaght commanded a Sepoy battalion. Brother of the first
Lord Lisle, he married in 1776 Martha, daughter of Mr. John Pybus.
(2* Lt. -Colonel .Taraoa Bdington was the Adjutant-General,
(3) Major Matthew Home, commanding the Artillery,
287 [No. 293.
and saluted with nineteen guns on the occasion, stood ready
to receive the compliments of more than he found disposed to
bestow them.
" The military however (it being a work of their own) together
with the principal black and Armenian merchants . . . paid
their devoirs, but a renflarkable backwardness appeared in the
bulk of the civil servants . . . Some few officers, whose approba-
tion of the Revolution was doubtfull, were ordered to the out
garrisons.
" The Gentlemen now in power being, however, fearfull of
some attempt being made to wrest the government out of their
hands in favor of Lord Pigot, sent a party privately to the
Mount under the command of Captain Edington, at midnight
between the 27th and 28th instant, to remove his Lordship's
person elsewhere, but to what place they would not then say
(though they have since declared it to be Chingleput). This
unreasonable and unexpected measure much surprised Lord
Pigot and alarmed his friends, who put the worst construction
on it. Edington, by virtue of a written order, peremptoryly
demanded his person of Major Home, and Home as
peremptoryly insisted for a time on Lord Pigot yielding
himself up to Edington ; but he as positively asserted he would
not do so, and declared they should not take him away alive.
" On this the Artillery (some two or three hundred in number)
then in cantonment there were put under arms, and called on
to do their duty ; but Pigot harangued them on the occasion,
told thein that he and he only was their lawful Governor,
that his person had been violently seized without a reason, that
he was then in secvxre confinement under them and not possible
for him, if he was so disposed, to escape, and on that account
there could be no reason for his removal at such an hour, in
such a way, to be carryed he knew not where, and for purposes
which he feared could not be good. Home called again on the
men to do their duty, told them he was their officer, and asked
if they would not obey him. Notwithstanding which they stood
stock still under arms and perfectly mute. Home and Edington,
haveing thiis much reason to apprehend the defection of those
troops, dropped the design, and so it ended.
" September 10th. On the 31st August Lord Pigot applyed
by his friends to the Mayor's Court for a writ of Habeas Corpus."
After some dehBeration the Court decided it had power to
grant the writ, but an adjournment took place on formal
grounds and when the Court assembled again on the 2nd
September the previous decision was reversed. " And thus
that affair ended."
Prior to the subversion of the Government reports of the
Board's proceedings and disputes had been sent to the Supreme
Council. Sir Robert Fletcher was in correspondence with
General Clavering, but no private representations were made
on behalf of Lord Pigot's party. " Answers to the whole
No. 293.] 288
detail of what was sent previous to the Revolution have been
received from the Supreme [Government] condemning in general
Lord Pigot's measures, more especially those at Tanjore, and
particularly his seizure of the Nabob's agent within the confines
of the Carnatick. No answers are yet received to the accounts
sent of the Revolution. They canftot well be expected till
towards the end of this month . . .
" September 21st . . . The Swallow, sloop of war, is to sail
the 30th instant with accounts of the Revolution to Suez ;
Dalrymple<^' on one part and Colonel Capper'^' on behalf of the
other go on her . . "
" George Baker."
"P.S. — October 8th. On the 6th instant the Administration
here received publick letters from the Supreme [Council] at
Calcutta, acknowledging the receipt of the letter containing
the account of the late Revolution here : of which they give
their full approbation, and promise to support them in their
government. Thus this matter now stands. What measures
will be taken on your side the water time will unfold. The
Swallow's departure was postponed, but she is now to sail for
Suez on the 10th instant. . ."
" G. Baker."
[Autograph, 15^ pp., flscp. The grosser errors in spelling
made by Baker's amanuensis have been corrected.]
[No. 294.]
Richard Welland to Robert Palk, Esqr., Bruton Street,
London.
1776, September 6th, Ship Salisbury, Madrass Roads. —
" Honoured Uncle, . . We are just come from Bombay and
we expect to go to Masulapatam soon. I have done sc[h]ool
now, and I do duty on the quarterdeck as Midshipman. Mr.
Adams is dead, and I heard he died wo[r]th 80 thousand pounds.
Sir Edward Hvighes behaves very well to me ; likeways Mr.
Baker, for I go ashore very often, and he sends me [plenty]
of fruit every Sunday. I am glad brother Robert has made
choise of the army. All my cousins in India are well. The
governer of Madrass suspen[d]ed some of the Council for private
correspondence with the Nabob. The Council tooke him the
next morning out of his chariot, and put him in prison at the
Mount, and suspen[d]ed him and Mr. Stone and several others,
and Mr. Striately'^* [sic] is mad[e] gove[r]ner. All the Com-
pany's ships saluted him with 19 guns, and the Fort saluted us
with 15 guns, and we returned the same number . . ,
" Your affectionate and ever dutiful nephew,
" Richard Welland."
[Holograph, 2 pp.. Mo. Wax seal with monogram.]
(1) Alexander Dalrymple. Vide No. 263, p. 257, note 2.
(2) James Capper, a civilian, was appointed by the Directors in 1773 to be
Commissary General, Madras, with the relative rank of Colonel,
(3) George Stratton,
289
[No. 293.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 15th, Fort St. George. — Received 21st April,
1777. — Since I wrote to you on the 27th June<i) a revolution has
occurred here. The Nawab, forgetting that he owes his position
as ruler of the Carnatic to Lord Pigot during the latter's first
administration, has lately supported those who are hostile to
the Governor. The Nawab and his sons instigated the Majority
in the Council to vote against the appointment of Mr. Russell
to Tanjore, and to require that gentleman to accompany the
Circuit Committee to the Northern Circars.
On the 22nd August, after Lord Pigot had suspended Messrs.
Stratton and Brooke for inciting the Secretary to commit an
unlawful act, the Majority, consisting of Mr. Stratton, Sir
Robert Fletcher, and Messrs. Brooke, Floyer, Palmer, Jourdan
and Mackay, joined (with the exception of 'Sir Robert, who was
ill) Messrs. Benfield and Macpherson and the two sons of the
Nawab at night at Mr. Benfield's garden house, where they
received communications from the Nawab. Next morning all,
except the Nawab's sons, met at Sir Robert Fletcher's garden,
where the Majority resolved to assume the Government, and
sent out notices to that effect. On receipt of the notice Lord
Pigot suspended the Majority members and appointed Colonel
Stuart Commander-in-Chief. Colonel Stuart, after repeatedly
enjoying his Lordship's hospitality, drove with the Governor
on the evening of the 24th from the Fort towards the Company's
Garden, having previously arranged with Benfield, Macpherson
and others that the carriage should be stopped by Colonel
Edington and Captain Lysaght, supported by an armed party
of sepoys and Nawab's troops. The two officers emerged from
the shadows of the avenue of trees on the Island, and presenting
pistols, halted the chaise. Colonel Stuart forced Lord Pigot
to enter Mr. Benfield's carriage, which was in waiting, and
despatched him a prisoner to the Mount, where he was placed
in the custody of Major Home. The Majority immediately
went to the Fort, and next morning issued orders to " all the
military and civil servants of the Company and white and black
inhabitants of Madrasspatnam to give them their attendance
at the Fort Square at 11 o'clock in that morning, and to hear
the proclamation they drew out themselves in the names of
his Majesty, [the] English nation and the East India Company.
. . . On the 26th the Nabob and his two sons with great pomp
came to the Fort to give his visit to Mr. Stratton, and the
27th Mr. Stratton went to the Nabob with great pomp, where
he was received very handsomely ..."
On the 28th at midnight Colonel Edington went to the Mount
to remove Lord Pigot to Gingee, but through the action of
Major Home and Messrs. Russell, Dalrymple and Monckton
(1) No. 289, V- 277,
No. 295.] 290
the intention was not executed. " Mr. Russell came down to
Sir Edward Hughes at St. Thome at three in the morning, and
got him out of his bed and acquainted him. . . . Sir Edward
Hughes immediately came to the Fort, and spoke to Mr. Stratton
and the rest of the Gentlemen at 4 o'clock in the morning,"
and induced them to promise that no further attempt to remove
Lord Pigot would be made. Most of the civil servants have
refused to recognize any Governor but Lord Pigot, and all the
native inhabitants are profoundly grieved and depressed.
Many of the mihtary officers have no sympathy with the
revolution. We are in hopes that such gentlemen as yourself,
Mr. Du Pre and Mr. Call will return to India to put matters
right.
" I used to get my letters corrected by somebody else before,
but I [am] now afraid to shew this letter to any one here, and
therefore I wrote it myself as well as I can, and request you will
please to excuse me the errors and broken English wrote in
this letter . . ."
" Chocapah."
[Holograph, 6 pp., ito.]
[No. 296.]
H[enry] Vansittart, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esqr.].
1776, September 18th, Calcutta. — " I have received your
favors of the 14th December, 1775, and 7th January, 1776.
If I should ever prove an honor to my name, I shall attribute
it to my good fortune in meeting with friends who have suggested
its importance and animated my pursuit ... It gives me
uneasiness that I should transmit memorials of myself to my
friends in an uncouth form, and hope that my future perfor-
mances will not be liable to such exception. The friend at
whose instance you imparted the counsel being unknown, I
can only thank him through you for his kind attention ..."
" H. Vansittart."
[Holograph, If p., flscp.]
[No. 297.]
George Smith to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 20th, Fort St. George. — " How great must
be your surprise on receipt of this to know that a revolution
has taken place in our Government, that Lord Pigot is a
prisoner under a military guard at the Mount, and George
Stratton in the chair of Government. To enumerate the
circumstances which have led to this change would be to swell
this beyond the limits of a letter. I must therefore refer you
to the India House and to the public papers for the detail.
In order, however, to gratify your curiosity thus raised by me,
I will here inform you of a few uncontrovertable facts, which
will guide you to the source of this event,
291 [No. 297.
" The present Administration accuse Lord Pigot with
despotism, arbitrary power, an intention to subvert the con-
stitution of Government, and with the receipt of presents.
These are the summary of the accusations against him, which, if
true, would scarcely justify the measures which have been
adopted ; but, being false, how much more culpable are the
men who have seized on his Government and person ! If
opposition to a venal faction in his Council, and putting a
negative on resolves formed on injustice and self-interest ; if
a strict observance of the interest and honour of the Company,
and a punctual regard to their instructions and orders can be
termed despotic and arbitrary measures tending to t?ie sub-
version of the Constitution, then is my I^ord guilty of the charge
against him ; if not, he is innocent. Of these charges I most
readily acquit him. Effects but too evidently demonstrate the
cause of this revolution ; self interest is the source and spring
of it — Tanjore loans and money from the Nabob to load the
Rajah with the payment of these moneys — this the true, the
undoubted cause. You know me, and I tell you that I am
totally disinterested in my representation ; and to convince
you that I am so, I need only tell you that I have a Tanka for
pearls, which I last year sold the Nabob, ... on Tanjore,
unpaid, to the amount of Pags. 31,500, which is a large sum to
me, and for which I could now get an order on the Rajah by an
application to the present Administration ... In regard to the
information of presents, from whom do they [sic] come ? From
the declared foes of Lord Pigot — Benfield and his man Comaroo.
. . . Benfield's enmity against Lord Pigot is incredible : he
has said such things to me of him that I could not have believed
if he had not told me them himself.
" Since the revolution the sentiments of the Supreme Council
on the conduct of my Lord Pigot towards the Nabob have come
to hand. These give great hopes to the present Administration
that their measures in regard to him will also be approved.
These resolves you will see. Untill you do, and know circum-
stances, please to suspend your opinion, for I will take upon
me to say that they are crude, indigested and malignant . . .
" Bob Munro,'!' considering the present Administration
illegal, has had the honesty and fortitude to say so in a letter
to them, jointly with 37 other civil servants, and . . thinking
he could no otherways address Mr. Stratton than as ' stiling
himself President and Governor of Fort St. George ', has for
this address been suspended the service. The smalness of
the crime, the friendship which you had for his father . . . will,
I hope, be incentiyes with you to aid his other friends in getting
him reinstated . . .
" In regard to Randall's plot of assassination*^) ; the orders
(1) Bobert Duncan Munro. Vide No. 33, p. 55, note 2.
(2) William Randall, late Captain in the Nawab's array, was alleged to have
plotted with the Nawab's second son, Amir-ul-Umara, to poison Lord Pigot.
No. 297.] 292
of these gentlemen to Major Hom[e] ' That in case a rescue was
attempted, as the last resource his Lordship's hfe must answer
for it, and this you are to signify to him ' ; and Colonel
Edington's attempt to take him from Horn[e] in the dead of
night, are horrible things. The two last bear hard on the new
Powers, and resemble much the seven Tyrants of Syracuse. As
to the first, every person will judge for himself. T know Omer
al Omrah to be- a bad man, and I can figure to myself what a
bad man is capable of doing ..."
" George Smith.
[Holograph, 8 pp., 4to.]
[No. 298.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 20th, Fort St. George. — I advise the despatch
per Grenville of " one box containing six small jarrs of limons
and chillies pickles," of which I beg your acceptance,
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 1 p., Mo.]
[No, 299.J
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 21st, Madras. — " We have had an instance
lately of the dispatch with which advices may be sent from
Europe to India by forwarding the letters to Grand Cairo
directly, and from thence over the Isthmus of Suez, where
vessels may be stationed to fetch them away to India. A
private packet for Mr. Hastings of the 20th May from London,
with letters from Mr. Graham at Marseilles of 3rd June, was
received at Calcutta the 15th August, and we had extracts
of it here from Bengal, come overland, the 7th instant . . .
Colonel Monson has been very ailing lately . . . Lady Monson'^'
dyed some months since.
" The arrival of the present packet from India will fill you
all with much surprize as well as serious concern ... at the
unfortunate lengths to which the animosities and dissentions
in Council have been carried, and the violent end it is brought
to by the arrest of Lord Pigot, who is now a prisoner at the
Mount, and the gentlemen who sided with him in Council,
Messrs. Russell, Dalrymple, Stone and Latham'^', being sus-
pended. I enclose you copys of several of the proceedings
which were made publick ... I shall avoid all reflections, but
only observe that extremities of this nature must prejudice
the Government very much and reduce its 'dignity and con-
sequence, more so with the Asiatics, whose notion of a Chief
Magistrate or the Government of a single person is congenial
(1) Colonel the Hon. George Monson, married Lady Anne Vane, daughter of the
Earl of Darlington.
(2) Richard Lathom, Chief at C'uddalore, sat in Council when at Madras. H?
was a civil servant of 1756,
293 [No. 299.
to them. The Nabob with reason seems to be sorry for what
has happened, as I told him that it was out of his power to
prevent suspicions being entertained of his having had some
hand in all that is come to pass . , .
" You will perceive by the resolutions of the Supreme Council
of the 7th August last that they disapproved entirely of most
part of liord Pigot's conduct towards the Nabob, whom they
declare they were determined to protect in his just rights. The
present Administration waits to hear from Bengal regarding the
last act ... I may aver for truth to you that if Lord Pigot
had been less violent, and more moderate and attentive to the
great interest the Settlement had in the Tanjore countrey from
the Tanakaws and orders for money granted by the Nabob to
individuals, much of what has happened may have been pre-
vented, for it was certainly the interest of private individuals
that increased the opposition . . .
" It will be strongly urged by those that do not favor the
Nabob's cause that he should not be permit[t]ed to reside here,
as it gives him a convenient opportunity to form partys in
Council, &c. . . . The advantages to this Settlement since his
constant residence here for the last ten years are very great
and visible, both in the considerable increase of inhabitants,
near a third more than before, as well as of the trade and
benefits reaped by them by the great consumption of many
articles of use and ornament for the Nabob's family and court.
But in a political sense also the Nabob should be kept here in
preference to any distant place, as we can watch better over his
actions ... A great deal has been said about the Nabob's
aiming at independance, and his great force, &c. The first
will never be attained by him but by a weak Administration on
our part suffering him to do so. He certainly had a numerous
rabble, and has still too many useless people that occasions to
him a great but unnecessary expence. When our Government
is on good terms with the Nabob, he may be easily prevailed
upon to regulate many things, but when both sides are in an ill
humour it is no time for reforming abuses. It is of the most
important consequence to the Company that a sincere
harmony and good understanding should subsist between their
Government here and the Nabob . . .
"During these political contests many things have been said
of presents received on both sides. His Lordship was accused
also of a large sum received from the Nabob since his arrival.
" Mr. Adams'!' dyed lately with a sudden attack of an
apoplectick fit. He remained speechless for two days before
he expired. He has left upwards of fifty thousand £. . . .
The Mayor's Court are going to petition the King for power to
grant writ of Habeas Corpus, which will be a great security
to the subject, and a very necessary power to the Court here.
It is the commonly received opinion here that Sir Edward
(1) Reynold Adams. Vide No. 112, p. 141, note 1.
No. 299.] 294
Hughes has not behaved the most steadily in this business
from the rank he holds. ....
" I beg once more you will think of establishing— that is,
propose to the Company for doing it — a communication to
India through Grand Cairo and Suez, which may be accom-
plished at very little expence by appointing an English
merchant at Cairo as their agent to forward the letters to Suez,
where a small vessell from Bengal or Bombay should be con-
stantly kept, relieving each other, to fetch away the packet to
India . . . The Company entertains vessells enough at Bengal
and Bombay to be employed in this service without putting
them to any additional expence, and by this means we may
have intelligence through that channel at least four times a
year ... If you should have occasion to write us that way,
please to recom[m]end your letters to Mr. George Baldwin,'^*
merchant at Grand Cairo, who corresponds with us . . .
" The Nabob has lately shewn some kindness to Mrs.
Vansittart ; indeed his disposition towards all the family is
very friendly. It is much to be regret[t]ed that he will not
attend to the regulation of his finances, which are ever
anticipated, and thereby it costs him an onerous interest.
Benfield is gone to Tanjore to endeavor (it is supposed) at the
recovery of his property there . . ."
" John dTkies."
[Autograph, .10| pp., Mo.]
[Enclosures.]
No. 1. 1776, August 22nd. Copy of order suspending George
Stratton and Henry Brooke, and nominating Claud Russell to be
Second of Council. Signed by the Secretary, R. J. Sulivan, by
order of the Rt. Hon. President and Council.
Appended is an order that the honours due to the Second of
Council shall be paid to Claud Russell. Signed by the Town
Major, Capt. Robert Wood, by order of the Rt. Hon. the
Governor.
No. 2. 1776, August 23rd. Copy of letter from George
Stratton, Robert Fletcher, Henry Brooke, Charles Floyer,
Archdale Palmer, Francis Jourdan and George Mackay, con-
stituting the Majority of Council, to the Rt. Hon. Lord Pigot,
President, and Claud Russell, Alexander Dalrymple and John
Maxwell Stone, constituting the Minority, stating that the
Majority deem themselves the only legal representatives of the
Company, and decline to obey a summons issued to some of
them to attend a meeting of the Council on that day.
No. 3. 1776, August 23rd. Copy of order of arrest of Sir
Robert Fletcher for being concerned in circulating letters tending
to cause mutiny in the garrison. Also order of appointment
(1) In 1787 George Baldwin, H.M. Consul in Egypt, was appointed Company 'a
agent at Cairo.
295 [No. 299.
of Colonel James Stuart to command the army. Signed by the
Secretary, R. J. Sulivan, by order of the Rt. Hon. President
and Council.
No. 4. 1776, August 24th. Copy of proclamation by the
Majority in the name of his Majesty and the English nation,
setting forth the acts of the Minority, annulling their powers,
and proclaiming George Stratton President of the Council.
Signed by the Majority.
Appended is an extract from the Company's Standing Orders,
providing that all questions in Council are to be decided by a
majority of votes. Signed by the Secretary, R. J. Sulivan.
No. 5. 1776, August 25th. Copy of proceedings of George
Stratton and Council, recording the arrest of Lord Pigot, the
suspension of Claud Russell, Alexander Dalrymple and John
Maxwell Stone, and the assumption by George Stratton of the
office of President. Signed by the Majority.
Appended are orders appointing Colonel Stuart to command
the army and garrison during the illness of Sir Robert Fletcher,
nominating Captain Lysaght to be Town Major, and making
certain transfers of officers.
No. 6. 1776, August 28th. Copy of resolution that the order
of the Minority for the arrest of Sir Robert Fletcher be erased
from the records. Signed by the Secretary, R. J. Sulivan, by
order of the President and Council.
No. 7. N.D. [1776, August 31st]. Copy of Petition of George
Lord Pigot to the Mayor's Court, setting forth the circumstances
of his arrest on the 24th August, removal to the Mount, and
delivery into the custody of Major Home, part of whose orders
were — " As the last resource in case of an attempt to rescue
Lord Pigot, his Ufe must answer for it." The Petition con-
cludes thus : — " Your Petitioner therefore most humbly prays
this Honorable Court that, taking into consideration the violent
and felonious assault and capture of him the said George Lord
Pigot by the said James Eidingtoun, the said Arthur Lysaght
and the said James Stuart, as also the illegal detention of him
the said George Lord Pigot at St. Thomas's Mount aforesaid
by the said Matthew Home, will be pleased to issue a Writ
of Habeas Corp[u\s ad faciendum, subjiciendum et recipiendum,
to do, submit and receive whatsoever the Judges of this Honor-
able Court shall consider in behalf of him the said George
Lord Pigot."
No. 8. N.D. [1776, August 31st— September 2nd.]— Copy of
letter from Justice S.C. Lemaistre'i' to Charles Oakeley, Secre-
tary, Civil Department, expressing his opinion that the Mayor's
Court has no power to issue a Writ of Habeas Corpus.
[3 sheets, flscp.]
(1) Justice Lemaistre, one of the judges of the Supreme Court of Bengal, chanced
to be in Madras at this time.
296
[No. 300.]
MuDoo KisTNA to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 22nd.— Lord Pigot, on his arrival from
England, began the settlement of Tan j ore affairs, released the
Rajah and placed a British garrison in the Fort. Subsequently
he visited the district, accompanied by Messrs. Dalrymple and
Jourdan and myself, and reinstated the King. These acts
were naturally disagreeable to the Nawab. After the Governor's
return to Madras disputes arose in Council, and Lord Pigot was
arrested by the Majority and confined at St. Thomas's Mount.
"It is the opinion of most people that Lord Pigot acted upon
the principles of honor and virtue, and with a view of the
Company's interest in every respect, and that his conduct was
no ways to be blamed. However, he got into the present
misfortune, which was lamented by the whole people in the
country, because they knew him to be a person that [had]
done them singular service by putting an end to the French
troubles in the Carnatick during the late war and saving
Madrass from their invasion.
" As soon as George Stratton, Esqr., took the Government
upon himself, my son Choliapah (who acts in my room) went to
see him. He then told him that he will send for him when he
wanted, by which it is supposed that he listened to the
calumnious stories of our enemys [and] took us for Lord Pigot's
party . . . Narrain, our bitter enemy, became his head Dubash
in the same manner as he was under Mr. Bourchier, and
according to his usual custom is contriving mischiefs against
us . . "
" MuDOO KiSTNA."
[Autograph, 4j pp., 4io.J
[No. 301.]
H.H. the Nawab Walajah to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 25th. Chepauk. — " I have received from
you, my friend, three letters filled with friendship, and they
arrived when my mind was filled with sorrow, and they gave
great relief to my heart. I have seen your letter to Commodore
Sir Edward Hughes, and am much obliged to you for it, and I
hope you will, as usual, give attention to settling my affairs
in England. Though I could not but think that the order in
regard to Tanjore was unjust, I would not oppose it, and hoped
for redress ; and Lord Pigot not only executed it, but did
every thing in his power to destroy my rights and hurt my
honor ; and he shewed no consideration to a thirty five years'
friendship with the Company and the English nation, but
broke the peace of the Carnatick by acting contrary to his
Majesty's guaranty. He endeavoured by every means to
disgrace me, thinking to provoke me to some measure that
would have given him a pretence to destroy me and my family ;
297 [No, 301.
but depending on the Company's friendship and justice, I gave
him no opposition.
" His Lordship at last, through his own bad conduct, fell from
his high station. I had no concern therein, and knew nothing
of it 'till after it had happened. You will perceive the concern
of my mind by the paper which I wrote to Governor Stratton
on this subject the day after the affair happened, a copy of
which I enclose you , . The Council here, and the Governor
General and Supreme Council of Bengal have disapproved of
all his Lordship's conduct, as well in what regards my affairs
as the Company's. Mr. Hastings, who is your friend and mine,
wrote a letter to Sir Edward Hughes (an extract of which
Colonel Macleane will show you) by which you will see how
nearly your opinion and his agree . . .
" People may for their own interest raise what reports they
please, but I am an imalterable friend to the Company and the
English nation, and nothing will ever change me . . .
" What can I say more ? "
" P.S. You told me many things which I now recollect,
and two of them particularly. The first, that when the news
of Lally's beseiging Madrass reached England, the Directors
then asked you (as you had then newly arrived from India)
would Madrass stand or fall, and you answered that it would
not fall whilst General Lawrence commanded there. I hope
that you will positively assure them of a similar thing, which
is that as long as I and my family exist in the Carnatick, we will
never admit of the least diminution of our friendship with the
Company and the English. Secondly, you told me that should
the Government of Madrass do me any injury, I should not
oppose them, but make my complaint to England. This
advice has been of great use to me, and in all the injuries that
Lord Pigot has heaped on me I made no opposition, but have
made my representation to the Company in hopes of their
justice . . ."
[Autograph cipher, 4 pp., flscp.]
[Enclosure.] — " Translation of a letter from H.H. the Nabob
to Governor Stratton, dated 14 Rajib, 1190 Hegira, or 29th
August, 1776.
" I have been favoured with your letter dated 25th August,
1776, in which you inform me that the unconstitutional, violent
and illegal conduct of the late President, Lord Pigot, . . .
has reduced the Majority of the Council ... to put the said
President into arrest . . . Your assurances to me in your letter
of the friendship and protection of the Company made me
very happy. As to the conduct of Lord Pigot and those
gentlemen who supported him, it is unnecessary for me to say
any more. The situation into which his Lordship has fallen
in consequence of his own conduct awakes my remembrance
of his former services, and makes me forget much of what has
No. 301.J 298
lately past. It is sufficient that I made my representations
by letter to him and to the Governor General. In these letters
the King, the Parliament, the Company and the English nation
will read my sufferings and the injuries which their honor has
suffered in the treatment I have met with ... As I have
neither a right nor a disposition to interfere in your affairs,
what can I say more than that I am ready with all my ability
and force to unite with you in promoting the Company's interest
and the welfare of the Carnatick ? . . . I am devoted by all
means to the good and assistance of the English. With what
happiness then do I rely on your declaration of your firm
resolution to shew me every mark of attention, respect and
support.
" What can I say more ? "
[2? PP; flscp.]
[No. 302.]
Charles Floyer'i' to Robeet Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 25th, Fort St. George. — " The news now
conveyed to England by His Majesty's sloop the Swallow to
Suez, and from thence by land, are of so serious a nature as to
require the immediate attention of the Court of Directors, the
Court of Proprietors and of the Ministry itself. They relate
solely to this Presidency, and must be deemed the more
important as they contain matters for which no precedent can
be traced amongst the Company's records. <^) In short, my
dear Sir, the minion of the public, and the Governor, nominated
in so distinguished a manner (Lord Pigot) by a Court of
Proprietors, has proved the greatest tyrant you can possibly
conceive, not only in his avowed principles of government, but
in the most injurious, most oppressive and most illegal measures
he has pursued in his attempts to subvert the constitutional
rights of our nation and of the East India Company, and in
making every thing subservient to his private interests in direct
breach of his trust and of the positive orders of the Company.
To enumerate a tenth part of the outrageous acts he has com-
mitted would require much more time than the present dis-
patch affords me : permit me therefore to refer you to my
brother, whom I have desired to wait upon you with a particular
relation of the most important parts of our transactions, by
which you will perceive that the Majority of Council . . .
has been reduced to the very disagreable necessity of causing
the person of Lord Pigot to be arrested, and of suspending
Messrs. Russell, Dalrymple and Stone from the service . . .
" His Lordship's grand and favorite object was the restoration
of the Rajah of Tanjore, and the rock on which he and his
associates split. That his Lordship came to India at his
(1) Vide No. 84, p. 113, note 6.
(2) The subversion of Mr. Poxcroft's Govei-nment by Sir Edward Winter in 1665
presents points of resemblance.
299 [No. 302.
advanced time of life merely to enforce the orders of the
Company on that subject without having in view his private
interest also I believe cannot be supposed even by his warmest
friends. He had a most extensive field for the gratification
of every wish. It was the restoring in his single person a King,
dispossessed of his country and reduced to a state of oblivion
and obscurity, to a throne. This was the man destined to
look up to his restorer as his demi-god, and from whom alone
he covild expect the future blessings of this life. And in order
to effect so favorite a point his Lordship . . . proceeded to
Tanjore to execute singly the orders of the Company. Hence
originated all the evils lately experienced . . , as well from his
conduct during and after his public transactions there as from
his indecent behavior towards the Nabob, who was doomed to
fall a victim to the support his Lordship had determined to give
to the Rajah . . . If we very early conceived suspicions of his
Lordship's self-interested motives . . . , the event must prove
such suspicions were not groundless, for Mr. Benfield has
addressed a letter to the Board . . . wherein he charges Lord
Pigot with having received presents in plate, jewels and money
to a very considerable amount from Indian Princes ; and that
having obtained undoubted proofs thereof, he is determined
to commence prosecutions against him for a breach of the late
Act of Parliament. The charge, I fear, is too true ; and if
public report is to be credited, the sum amounts to between
three and four hundred thousand pounds.
" In confidence to you, my dear Sir, ... I shall now inform
you of his Lordship's supposed plan, and which has, in my
opinion, been so strongly corroborated by his late conduct . . .
that I frankly confess I believe it to be true. The greatest part
of the above enormous sum was to come from Tanjore. A
Resident therefore . . . was to be appointed at the Rajah's
Court, and that Resident insisted upon by his Lordship to be
only his friend Mr. Russell, who was to marry the youngest
Miss Pigot (a child of sixteen years of age) ; to have as large a
fortune with her as had been given to Mr. Monckton with the
eldest daughter (at least £20,000) ; to receive for his Lordship
the ballance due to him from the Tanjore country ; to wait the
departure of Messrs. Stratton and Brooke, who had determined
to go to Europe . . ., when Mr. Russell becoming second of
Council, his Lordship was to embark upon the very next ship
for Europe, leaving the Government to his friend and son-in-law.
The other son-in-law (Mr. Monckton, who has very handsomely
availed himself of his relationship to a Governor) and his lady
were to have accompanied the father to Europe. No bad plan,
I think, for all the parties concerned. But unfortunately for
them it has failed in all its points : — Vide the violent efforts
of the Minority to send Russell to Tanjore ; the obstacles they
threw in the way of . . . the Committee of Circuit ... of
which Committee Messrs. Russell and Dalrymple were nominated
No. 302.] 300
members from home ; and the last violent effort attempted
by Lord Pigot to suspend Messrs. Stratton and Brooke from
the service, who were the only two members between Mr.
Russell and the Chair."
The Majority having protested against this suspension as
illegal, the Minority reassembled, suspended their remaining
opponents, and appointed Colonel Stuart Commander-in-Chief.
" We therefore did assert our rights as a Majority, and causing
Lord Pigot to be arrested, we assumed the government of the
Company's affairs on the day following (the 24th August), and
suspended Lord Pigot from being President of the Council,
and Messrs. Russell, Dalrymple, Stone and Lathom from the
Company's service . . . The last named gentleman, although
he had been arrived at Madrass twelve days before this happened,
in his way to the Committee of Circuit, had never attended a
single Council untill the day on which we were all suspended ;
and finding he concurred in the unanimous resolutions of . . .
the Minority . . ., we included him also in the list of suspended
members . . .
" Of the rectitude of the cause I have been under the absolute
necessity of espousing ... I am under no apprehension . . .
I am well aware that the circumstance of arresting Lord Pigot
will be represented in the strongest colours by his friends at
home, and that it will at first operate strongly in his favor,
because it is an event for which there is no precedent abroad.
But when, among the many other reasons assigned in the
narrative to my brother, ... as well as those more fully stated '
in our address to the Court of Directors, we consider . . . the
very violent and uncontroulable disposition of Lord Pigot, who
had so deep a stake, and his having a military commission as
Commander-in-Chief of the military forces within the garrison
of Fort St. George and the Black Town, I am led to hope those
reasons will sufficiently evince the absolute necessity of arresting
his person as a previous step to the Majority's resuming the
Government . . . Had the Majority contented themselves
with merely suspending his Lordship from the Government,
an insurrection must have ensued . . . and the loss of many
lives wovild certainly have been the consequence, and Lord
Pigot's amongst them, for he never would have yielded to any
power ; whereas by the measures which were taken not a man
was seen under arms, and the Government was as peaceable
and quiet from the day we resumed it as if nothing had happened,
excepting a remonstrance which was signed and sent to us from
some of the youngest civil servants of the Company, headed by
his Lordship's son-in-law, Mr. Monckton, and two or three
Senior Merchants . . .
" As for his Lordship, it is only the name of an arrest, for he
is lodged in the house of Major Home, who commands the
artillery at the Mount and who has an order to treat him with
all possible respect and attention. The houses at the Mount
301 [No. 802.
are filled with his sons-in-law, his daughters and a tribe of his
followers ; people of all denominations visiting him daily ; and
he has the whole Mount for his range of exercise and amusement.
He wishes, naturally enough, to return as Governor to his Fort,
and has frequently declared to the troops that he would put
himself at the head of them and march them into it.
" This, my dear Sir, is in few words the real matter of fact.
If you shall find I have acted upon fair, honest and constitutional
grounds in my small attempts to crush tyranny and oppression,
I hope I shall meet from the Company, from you and my other
friends those tokens of approbation which alone can relieve
my mind from the very great uneasiness I labor under ..."
" Charles Floyer."
[Holograph, lOf pp., 4to.]
[No. 303.]
Sir Edw[ar]d Hughes to Rob[er]t Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 26th, Madras. Received 28th April,
1777. — " I was not only obliged to go last year to Bombay to
dock and refitt, but it was the seat of business, and all India
wished me there with the squadron to assist in reconciling their
disputes with the Mharattas, which were terminated before I left
again by a treaty concluded at Poonah between the Mharatta
Ministers and that Presidency, for the effecting of which the
presence of the squadron proved very usefull ... I hope the
measure will be approved at home, for I can assure you . . .
that we took by much the weakest side.
" Your nephew is a very clever lad, and has learned both
practice and theory of his profession much as could be expected.
He does the duty of midshipman now, and I flatter myself will
do very well, though, as is the case with most young people,
he is a little pickle, and [I] am obliged to look very sharp after
him, which I will do for your sake. He [is] sometimes with
Captain Baker on shore, but not too often : that would ruin all,
" You might well be apprehensive of the orders brought out
by Lord Pigot deeply affecting His Highness ; yet the Gentlemen
at Bengal, to whom he has appealed, find most fault with the
carrying them into execution, of the manner of which the Nabob
loudly complains, as you will find. The consequence of that
and other steps at the Board has brought about a strange
revolution. The Gentlemen of what is said to be the Majority
have possessed themselves of the Government, laid a restraint
on Lord Pigot by seizing on the person of his Lordship and
sending him to the Mount, where the Train of the Company
is stationed, and his Lordship remains under the care of Major
Home. Both parties have appealed to me, both declaring they
are the legal Government. The only line of conduct I thought
my self qualified to take has been that of not pretending to
determine that of which I am not a competent judge, but giving
the assistance of the ships under my command where I see the
No. 303.] 302
power is of carrying on the Company's service and benefit of
the nation. They have also appealed to the Supreme Council,
and their determination is eagerly expected . . .
" His Lordship claimed the protection of the King's colours,
which [claim], from some circumstances that happened, I thought
necessary to make of the Board, who did not think proper to
part with his Lordship from under their authority ; and so
the matters stands, except his Lordship haveing farther offered
for reason a design being formed to take away his life, but which
has not gained any credit and said to have been in agitation
nine months ago. If so, why was it not discovered before ? . . .
" I am glad you assist Mr. Macleane. It is my opinion, had
that gentleman been at home sooner, the orders respecting
Tanjore had ne'er been obtained. A Company's garrison in
the place and the country to remain with the Nabob is, in my
opinion, most for the benefit of nation and Company, for I am
sure he will ever remain their fast friend notwithstanding
the many distresses daily, I may say, imposed on him. It is
much to be lamented that no express or written treaty has ever
been concluded between the Nabob and the Company. It has
been recommended in the letters of last year from Bengal to
the Court of Directors, but [it] is doubted whether it can be
properly effected by that Government without their authority.
But he will be firmly supported in his just rights, and effectually,
till their orders can be received for the application of a lasting
treaty. I see no fault to be found in giving up Tanjore to the
Nabob. The servants of the Company should, in my opinion,
have insisted on a Company's garrison, . . . though I believe
nothing of his aiming at independancy : on the contrary, that
it is the farthest from his thoughts.
" I expect to be relieved in May and to see you some time
next year : — I think [by] Sir E. Vernon most likely. I shall
then compleat four years absence, and Lady Hughes will agree
with me that [is] long enough. I hope the troubles in America
will be ended ere that. God knows 'tis dreadfull in every
shape.
" Oh, I wish it was in my power to give your attorneys bills ;
but our wants for so few people are so few also, it makes it
impossible. They tell me there is not much to remitt.
" I am, with best respects to Mrs. Palk and compliments to
the Bretts,
" Ed WD. Hughes."
{Holograph, 8 pp., 4to.]
[No. 304.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, September 26th, Madras.—" This is to inclose you the
declaration of Captain Randall against the Nabob's son Amir
ul Omrah, which at a distance must injure his character, more
308 [No. 804.
particularly so as he bears an unfavorable one already in
England. Captain Randall is a bad character, and little credit
is given to his information here. No advices yet from Bengal
since the revolution. I send you^^also Mr. Russell's declaration
regarding himself of what passed on the 24th August . . .
" Several affidavits have been made within these two or
three days which greatly invalidates Captain Randall."
" John d'Fries."
[Autograph, 1 p., 4to. Duplicate.]
[Enclosures. Besides Randall's declaration, two other affidavits
have been found which appear to have been forwarded by d'Fries
with this or a subsequent letter. Russell's declaration has not
been traced.]
No. 1. 1776, September 15th. Copy of deposition before the
Mayor by William Randall, now or late Captain in the service
of the Nawab, and Aide de Camp to his son Amir-ul-Umara.
The latter frequently instigated deponent to murder Lord
Pigot, and proposed to engage Benfield's dubash, Comaroo,
to aid him. Deponent visited Comaroo, who was acquainted
with the Prince's design. Amir-ul-Umara has also pressed
deponent to go to England and expose the weakness of character
of his elder brother Umdat-ul-Umara in view to the succession
devolving on himself. Sworn before John Turing*^*, Mayor.
No. 2. 1776, September 21st.- — Copy of deposition before the
Mayor by Samuel Mills, late lieutenant in the service of Amir-
ul-Umara. William Randall told deponent, with whom he lived,
that he had a plan for making his fortune. He wrote a paper,
which he took first to Lord Pigot at the Mount, then to the
Mayor, and afterwards showed to deponent. Subsequently
Randall received letters and money from Mr. Monckton. Sworn
before John Turing, Mayor.
No. 3. 1776, September 26th. — Copy of deposition by Edward
Monckton. On going to his house at the Mount for dinner at
1 p.m. on the 15th September, deponent found Captain Randall
among the guests. Randall showed deponent a written state-
ment which he wished to make on oath. Next morning Randall
brought the paper duly attested, and said that he had resigned the
Nawab's service, and that Lord Pigot had promised to befriend
him and pay his passage to England. He asked for a loan of
Pags. 600, which deponent provided. Sworn in Court before
James Taylor'^', Registrar.
[3 sheets, flscp.]
[No. 805.]
Chocapah to the Honble Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, October 1st, Fort St. George. — I hear that Captain
Randall, an officer in the Nawab's service, has declared on oath
(1) Vide No. 214, p. 221, note 2.
(2) James Taylor, a civil servant of 1764,
No. 305.] 304
before the Mayor that " Mudar Mulk, the Nabob's second son,"
instigated him to murder Lord Pigot by poison or otherwise,
and promised him the aid of Comaroo, Benfield's dubash.
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 21 pp., 4>to.]
[No. 306.]
Henry Brooke to Robert Palk, Esqr., London.
1776, October 2nd, Fort St. George. — " You will be surprized
at the news that you will hear on the arrival of the Company's
packet by this conveyance. The unhappy division which has
prevailed in our Council . . . and the put[t]ing Lord Pigot
under an arrest is of such importance that I have wrote a short
account of it to Mr. Roberts'", Chairman at the India House,
in two letters, copies of both which I have transmitted to my
brother Thomas Brooke in Charles Street, St. James's, London,
to both of which I beg leave to refer you."
" Henry Brooke."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[No. 307.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, October 6th, Fort St. George. — Owing to the unsettled
state of public affairs I am obliged to relinquish my duties as
your attorney, but my resignation should cause no incon-
venience to your other attorneys here.
The Minority in the recent revolution included Lathom, Chief
of Cuddalore, who came up to join the Circuit Committee.
" He did not take his seat at the Board till a day or two before
the event of the 24th of August, so that he came in just time
enough (as it were) to be suspended. I am sorry for him. He
is a good man, and means well at least.
" Sir Robert Fletcher has been ill for some months past of
a decline, and for the last week it has been said that he will go
to the Cape for the recovery of his health. Apartments are
kept for him and Lady Fletcher on board the Greenivich, but
it is thought by some that the late favorable accounts from the
Supreme [Government] may induce him to put off his voyage.
" Binfield is just returned from Tanjore, where he went to
recover his money by virtue of a recommendatory letter from
the Board to the Rajah. The King . . . denyes owing him
any thing. Binfield being chagrined, was rude and insolent,
and left the King abruptly. One part of Binfield's busyness
was to have procured proof there of Lord Pigot's venallity,
but it does not appear that he has succeeded. He has long
threatened him with a prosecution on that score, and if he can
(1) John Roberts was Chairinan in 1776,
305 [No. 307,
find ground to go on, I am perswaded will not spare him, haveing
repeatedly declared that he will spend one hundred thousand
pounds to obtain satisfaction of him
[Holograph, 5 pp., 4to.]
" George Baker.
[No. 308.J
H.H. the Nawab Walajah to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, October 8th, Chepauck. — " My letter that goes to you
herewith will inform you of the situation of my affairs. You
may recollect that at the time the treaty was made by Lord
Pigot with the Rajah of Tanjore in 1762, when you. General
Lawrence, Mr. Bourchier and Colonel Call were at Madrass, I
complained to you and General Lawrence that it was contrary
to my inclination that the treaty was made ; that I had told
his Lordship so, and had refused to subscribe to it ; but that
he put a pen in my hand and obliged me. to sign it, and also
took my Chop'^' and put it with his own hand to the treaty.
I hope that . . . you will declare this circumstance to every
body, as it will shew how unjust his Lordship's conduct has
been. He made a large fortune and went home ; but not
content, he has returned to India to pursue his private interests
and to make another fortune by repeating his ill treatment
to me.
" What can I say more ? "
[1 p., flscp. The outer cover is addressed in both English and
Persian character. Its wax seal bears the Nawab's titles in
Persian.]
[No. 309.]
Prince Amir-ul-Umara to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, October 9th, Chepauk.— " Though I have not had the
pleasure of a correspondence with you, I am very sensible of
your great friendship for my father when you were in this
country, and of the assistance you give Colonel Macleane . . .
You'll see by my father's letter to you, as well as from the
representations of Colonel Macleane, how things are situated
here, and the troubles that his Lordship has occasioned in my
father's rights and country. We have great hopes from your
assistance. Your letter to Sir Edward Hughes rejoiced my
father's heart. We have had great support from our mutual
friend Mr. Hastings. I give as much assistance as is in my
power to your attorney, Mr. de Vries ..."
" What can I say more ? "
[1 p., flscp, Nawab's cipher.]
(I) FW? Jfo, 293, p. 284, note h
306
[No. 310.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esqr.
1776, October 10th, Madras. — " This goes by the Swallow,
which is to put the letters ashore at Suez, to be forwarded from
thence to Grand Cairo and Alexandria and so to Europe, and
may probably be the first advice that you will receive of the
revolution that happened in the Government of this Settlement
on the 24th of August last. Mr. Dalrymple goes with Lord
Pigot's packet, and Colonel Capper with the Nabob's, by whom
I send this.
" The measures pursued by Lord Pigot in the surrender of
Tanjore to the Rajah and the total disregard paid to the interest
of individuals (English and others) who had a very large amount
to receive there by assignment from the Nabob, caused a very
great discontent in the Settlement as well as a disgust in the
Nabob, and occasioned a strong opposition in Council against
his Lordship, who had on his side Messrs. Russell, Dalrymple
and Stone ; the Majority consisting of Messrs. Stratton, Sir
Robert Fletcher, Brooke, Floyer, Palmer, Jourdan and Mackay.
After a contest of three months the grand point of dispute
became that Mr. Russell, who had been appointed, by the casting
vote of the President only. Resident at Tanjore, was afterwards
named on the Committee of Circuit. Colonel Stuart was to be
Commandant at Tanjore. Lord Pigot refused absolutely
signing to his instructions, which were drawn out, without Mr.
Russell" was permit[t]ed to go to Tanjore for a few days at least.
This brought matters to a crisis. Lord Pigot by a finess
suspended Messrs. Stratton and Brooke the 22nd, which gave
to his party the majority, as he called in the next day Mr.
Lathom to Council, who has come down from Cuddalore to
proceed on the Circuit.
" Mr. Stratton's party would not admit that they were
suspended, and on the 23rd met themselves as a Board ; and,
as the legal representatives of the Company, signified a protest
to Lord Pigot and his party, who thereupon suspended the rest
of them and put Sir Robert Fletcher under an arrest. This
drove them to the extremity on the next [day], the 24th, of
seizing on Lord Pigot, who was carried to the Mount, and is
kept there under guard of the Artillery commanded by Major
Home. Messrs. Russell, Dalrymple, Stone and Lathom [were]
suspended . . .
" We are in daily expectation of hearing from Bengal the
opinion of the Supreme Council hereon. In their resolutions
of the 7th August they disapproved entirely of Lord Pigot's
conduct towards the Nabob and of his proceedings in the
surrender of Tanjore . . . It will be of the utmost consequence
that the Company's determination of this important subject
be proper, considerate and impartial, as the future well-being
of this very considerable Colony and their good correspondence
307 [No. 310.
with the Nabob will entirely depend thereon . . . The most
essential thing for the Company as well as the publick is that
there be always a good understanding subsisting between their
Administration here and the Nabob, who should be used with
proper respect, and not slighted and irritated. We have raised
him ourselves to what he is, and to think now of treating him
as we did twenty years ago will be neither just nor judicious.
He is too sensible of his own consequence ; but I do believe that
he is a sincere friend of the English. His own good sense will
lead him to be so.
" The choice of persons to conduct the Company's affairs
here should be made with the greatest care and attention to
their abilities and characters, as much depends on a vigorous,
well conducted Administration. A line should be drawn of
the extent of the powers of a Governor and that of a majority of
his Council, as different opinions are held thereon by the different
partys. In those troubles at Bengal during Mr. Vansittart's
government nothing but his incomparable mildness of temper
prevented things running into extremities. And it should be
clearly pointed out whether the military power should at any
time interfere in disputes of the civil government, as the not
determining it very clearly may leave a door open to dangerous
proceedings hereafter.
" We are quiet in these parts. Although a peace has been
made many months ago between the Presidency of Bombay
and the Morattas, yet there don't seem to be much cordiality
subsisting. Trade is almost ruined all over India. The scarcity
of specie is much felt here : the exportation continues as great as
ever both to China and Europe ..."
" John d 'Fries."
[P.S.] — " The Supreme Council have unanimously approved
of the act of the Majority, and promise their support, acknow-
ledging them to be the legal representatives of the Company."
[Autograph, 4i pp.. Mo.]
[No. 311.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esq.
1776, October 14th, Fort St. George. — " Since I closed my
last Lord Pigot has put Sir R. Fletcher into our Mayor's Court
for two hundred thousand pounds damages, and required
security for that sum ere he leaves the Settlement, which he
was about to do for the recovery of his health at the Cape. The
Court have accepted bail for ten thousand pounds only, and Sir
Robert and Lady Fletcher go on the Greenwich. Report says
that Miss Pybus<" is to be marryed to Captain Lysaght . . .
Mr. R. Adams dyed about six weeks since, worth near two lacks
of pagodas. Colonel Monson has been long dangerously ill . . .
. , . I. — h- — ■ — ■ ■■-- ■ ' ■■■ .. I — ,
(I) C/. No, 293, p, 886, note 1.
No. 311.] 308
" I have made no comment on the narrative sent you. Were
I to do so, it would be some thing hke what follows : — The spirit
of liberty within these few years spreading and thriveing
throughout the British dominions extended itself even here,
and this at the time of a lax and weak government. People,
at least some of the Council, dreaded a restraint under Lord
Pigot's government which they had not been for a long time
used to . . . The orders he cariie to execute as to the
restoration of the King of Tanjore alarmed those who had lent
money to the Nabob on his assignment of the produce of parts
of that country. The Settlement, it is said, had lent him on such
assignments (called Tankas) some fifteen lacks of pagodas,
which if they could not recover by virtue thereof, they had no
one to look to for it but the Nabob ; and he told them that
they haveing accepted of those assignments as their security,
they were to look to that and not to him for payment. So that
it became their joynt interest either not to restore the country
to the King, or restore it only on condition of its being saddled
with the payment of that sum of money . . . And this, in
the opinion of many, was the principal private motive for oppos-
ing Lord Pigot's measures, though it was not the avowed one.
" This being the case, the Opposition chose the best grounds
of argument that offered in a course of long altercation, kept up
perhaps for the very purpose of involveing Lord Pigot in
inextricable difficultyes, or to compel him to submit to the
government of a majority against him, which I suppose his
spirit could but ill brook, and which I believe brought things
and persons to the state they are now in." Lord Pigot, moreover,
failed to cultivate a good understanding with the Supreme
Council, while the members of the Majority corresponded
privately with Bengal and ascertained how far they might expect
support. " The restoration of the Rajah of Tanjore on terms
precluding those from the prospect of recovering it who had lent
the Nabob money on that country was to this Settlement a
most unpopular measure, and such as rendered the supporters
of it odious. Those who opposed it were of course dubbed
patriots, though perhaps done for their own sakes . . ."
" George Baker."
[Autograph, 3^ pp., flscp. Some corrections have been made
in the spelling.]
[No. 312.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esq.
1776, October 15th, Madras. — " The Supreme Council have
entirely approved of the conduct of the Majority of Council,
and have promised them their support . . . The business
must now be finally determined in Europe. It will not do for
his Lordship to preside here again.
" Colonel Monson dyed the beginning of this month, which
309 [No. 312.
will leave Mr. Hastings with a clear majority. Sir Robert
Fletcher embarks on the Greenwich for the Cape, but there is
very little hopes of his life. He has given bail for 10,000?. to
answer suit, my Lord Pigot having entered an action in the
Mayor's Court for two hundred thousand I. damages against
him.
"Mr. Baker has wrote us a letter signifying that from ill
health he is obliged to relinquish the charge of your affairs.
Mr. Stone is gone to the Mount to Hve. to be nearer Lord
Pigot . . ."
" John d'Feies."
[Autograph, 2 pp., Uo.]
[No. 313].
Edm[un]d Veale Lane to Robert Palk, Esq.
1776, December 17th, Salsette. Received 28th July, 1777.—
" I wrote to you in my last of the peace which the Supremes had
concluded with the Ministerial Party of the Morattahs, and that
they had compelled the Governor and Council to break their
engagements to Ragonath Row (or Ragobah). It was owing
entirely to an accident the Treaty was in any shape complied
with by the Ministers ; for had not Sudabah.'i' a first cousin
of Ragobah's, got released from confinement and very near
wrested the government from them, Colonel Upton might have
returned to Calcutta without, having an article of the Treaty
fulfilled. But on Sudabah's success, being apprehensive we
should join him, the Ministers made good most of the cessions
stipulated for, though they had either refused or evaded to do
it for some months before. Notwithstanding this good fortune
at first, poor Sudabah was at last betrayed by some of his
people, and taken prisoner by Madjee Scindy,'^' one of the
Ministerial Generals.
" Ragobah, who had resided at Surat ever since our leaving
him, finding his relation out of prison, and a promising prospect
of success, left that place and made the best of his way towards
Basein in order to join Sudabah. But when the misfortune
just now mentioned happened, Ragobah was so hard pushed as
to be obUged to take shelter on board one of the Company's
vessels, and is now safe at Bombay.
"It is now said the officer who took Sudabah prisoner has
declared for him, and means to make him Vizier to the young
child, and that Ragobah has in consequence been invited to
return to Poonah. However, it is believed by most to be only
a finesse of the Ministers to get Ragobah into their hands. Be
it as it will, I wish most sincerely there was an end to the dispute.
Were the Presidency of Bombay once more permitted to inter-
fere, it would soon terminate to our advantage ; but as that
(1) Vide No. 290, p. 281, note 1.
(^) MaMdaji Sindia.
No. 313.] 310
seems to be very uncertain, if not improbable, I fear the present
possessors of the Morattah government will continue in power,
which if the case, we shall ever have a most inveterate enemy
near us, that will lay wait for the first opportunity that offers
to injure the Company . . .
" As General Carnac'i' is appointed to be our Governor on
the resignation of Mr. Hornby, I shall think myself greatly
favoured could you . . . procure me a letter of recommendation
to him from some of his friends ..."
"EdmE"- Veale Lane."
[Holograph, 4 pp. Uo.]
[No. 314.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esq.
1777, January 20th, Fort St. George.— I hear that Mr.
Benfield, obtaining no satisfaction for the tanka given him by
the Nawab on Tanjore, appealed to the Council, but received
no support. " Upon which, on the 24th October last, Mr. Ben-
field went to the Nabob's cutchery, where he made [a] great
noise, and stayed there from 8 o'clock in the morning to 8 at
night without taking any victuals nor drink, and said that he
would not go from the door without the Nabob give him some
proper manner of satisfaction to his money ; and the Nabob
sat with him so long without victuals, and at last told Mr.
Benfield that he will appoint Mr. Mackay, Mr. Macpherson,
Cojah Ashum Cawn'^' and another Moorman to settle his accounts
. . . but not a word of Tanaca money of Tanjore . . .
" Mr. Stratton and the Gentlemen at the Fort affixed an
advertisement at the gates, giving notice that they are willing
to receive sealed proposals untill the 15th of February next
(though the Cowles expire the 31st July next, which is about
5| months more) for farming the Beetle and Tabacoa Farm,
Arrack and Toddy Farm, Ruby Brokerage, Paddy Field and
Salt Pans, Trivatore, Egmore, Perembore and St. Thoma,"
and also the Fort St. David farms, for five, eight or ten years ;
but it seems doubtful whether the acceptance of tenders by a
self-constituted Government will be valid. Lord Pigot was
d' John Camac came to India in 1754 at the age of 38 as a subaltern in Adler-
cron's Regiment, and three years later joined the Company's forces with a step of
rank. In 1760 Major Carnac succeeded Caillaud in command of the army at Patna,
and in the following year defeated the Mogul, who wafe aided by a French contingent
under Jean Law. In 1765 Brig. -General Carnac worsted the Marathas, and in 1767
resigned the service, went to Ei^land and entered ParUament. Returning to India
in 1776, he was appointed a member of the Bombay Council. As a Field Deputy he
accompanied Egerton's ill-fated expedition against the Marathas, and was dismissed
the service for his share in concluding the Convention of Wargaon in 1779. Camac
resided at Bombay until 1800, when he visited Mah6 for his health. On the
return voyage he was seized with illness, and was landed at Mangalore, where he
died, aged 84 years.
(2) Khwaja Assam (PHashim) Khan, the Nawab's Diwan. In 1781 he was deputed
to Calcutta vath Richard Sulivau to offer the assignment of Walajah's revenues
to the Company for the charges of the war with Haidar.
311 [No. 314.
offered payment of his salary up to the 24th August, but refused
to accept it, as the amount was only part of what was due to
him. The Council were obliged to break open the Treasury,
because the keys were in Lord Pigot's possession. His Lord-
ship is in good spirits, and we hope that orders for his reinstate-
ment will be received in due course.
Mr. Andrew Ross'^' having enquired of the Supreme Court of
Bengal whether the Board has power to convene Quarter
Sessions, the Chief Justice declined to give an opinion, but
authorized Mr. Stratton to hold sessions provisionally pending
receipt of orders from England. Mr. Turing, the late Mayor,
received a similar intimation regarding the Court of Mayor and
Aldermen.
Colonel Stuart has been seriously ill. Captain Lysaght is
transferred to Ganjam, and Major Sydenham succeeds him as
Town Major. " Mr. Russell made a grand entertainment of
cards and supper at the Mount," both at Christmas and on New
Year's Day, and put up a handsome pandalJ^^ Most of the
civil servants, some of the officers and the principal English
and Armenian residents were present. Mr. Stratton found
himself deserted on those occasions, as everyone went to visit
Lord Pigot. When Chippermall Chetty and I called on Mr.
Mackay we were refused admission by his chohdarsS^'' The
dubash said his master was displeased with me for visiting Lord
Pigot and supplying materials for Mr. Russell's pandal. The
Bombay Council have refused to acknowledge any Governor
here but Lord Pigot. A proposal to send his Lordship forcibly
to England was strongly supported by Colonel Stuart and Mr.
Mackay, but opposed by Mr. Stratton and the other members
of the Council.
The French have stopped work on the fortifications at Pondi-
cherry. The new Governor, M. Bellecombe, arrived there on
the 8th instant, and took charge from M. Law. Haidar Ali is
reported to have taken Cranganore, one of the Dutch settlements
on the Malabar Coast, and to be preparing to attack the Rajas
of Cochin and Travancore. The latter expect assistance from
the Dutch at Colombo. Haidar, having made a prisoner of
Morari Rao and seized territory on this side of the Kistna, will
be opposed by Nizam Ali as well as by the whole power of the
Marathas.
Mr. Macpherson'*' is about to sail for England in the Lioness.
Mr. Brooke desired to depart likewise, but was refused leave
by his colleagues in Council. Colonel Stuart will go shortly to
Tanjore, where the Raja expects little consideration from him.
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 18 pp., Uo.]
(1> Vide No. 28, p. 46, note 1.
(2) Pandal, an open shed, draped pavilion.
(3J Chdbdar, bearer of a (silver) staff.
(4) John Macphereon. Vide No. 270, p. 263, note 2.
312
[No. 315.]
Sir Edw[ar]d Hughes to Rob[er]t Palk, Esq.
1777, February 6th, Madras. — " I returned the middle of last
month from Ceylon to this Presidency, where I find things much
in the same state I left them ; Lord Pigot still under restraint
at the Mount ; his Lordship, the Gentlemen in the Fort and the
Nabob all anxious to receive the determination of the Court of
Directors, which I fear cannot be before August. It seems there
was some steps taken at the Board to send Lord Pigot to England
in this ship, but overruled by a majority of two. The Nabob
very much averse to such a measure : indeed, as their differences
are referred to a Court of Directors, sure it is most proper his
Lordship should wait here the result.
" Nothing has arrived here since the Triton, nor do I expect
anything now sooner than May, when I have reason to believe the
ships will arrive to relieve me, and I shall be prepared to leave
India immediately. The Coventry has been at Mocha and
Judda, the Seahorse to China : both joined me again after
performing well the service I sent them upon. . . .
" I hope you and Mr. Macleane have succeeded in favour of
the Nabob. There is already an English garrison there, '^' to
which his Highness readily consents, but I hope the Company
will recall their former orders that took the country from him,
though the remark you make of our former labour and expence
is very just. Some plan may be settled to avoid the same
difficulties relative to the brothers'^' after the father's decease,
yet the Nabob at the same time may be satisfied.
" A new Governor has taken place at Pondichery, Major
General Bellecombe. Mr. Law is not pleased at his immediate
remove from the Chair. There is also a new Intendant, and a
70-gun ship lent to the Company has just landed 100 men
from Mauritius. I conclude their operations in India will
depend much on what has passed last year in America.
" The death of Colonel Monson gave the majority to Mr.
Hastings, and, it is said from Bengal, has made many changes
by displacing some of the late appointments, establishing others,
and that the Company's affairs are carried on now chiefly on the,
old plan. General Clavering has been very ill also, and though
clear of his fever and boils, much emaciated. This climate is
not good for too great strain of the mind, what has, I am afraid,
attended the General ever since his arrival. It is probable a
greater number of members of that Council may be judged
necessary to provide against these casualties.
" Our friend Captain Baker is very well ; greatly displeased
with this late revolution in Government. He is nevertheless
carrying his water through the surf (^) to supply the shipping, and
(1) At Tanjore.
<2' The question of succession as between the brothers TJmdat-ul-Umara and
Amir-ul-XJniara.
(3) Baker engineered a pipe line through the surf to deliver water to ships outside.
313 [No. 315:
hearty though he grows old. Mr. Stone is at the Mount with his
Lordship. I would gladly assist them with bills for the money
you may have in their hands, but our demands at present for
the use of 600 men only are so small, very little is in my power."
" Edwd- Hughes."
[Holograph, 6 pp., Mo.]
[No. 316.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esq.
1777, February 6th, Fort St. George. Received 28th July.—
" Mr. Macpherson,'!' a gentleman well known (and in some degree
distinguished here, though of but little standing in the
Company's service) takes his passage on the Lyoness. He was
dismissed the service in Lord Pigot's Government for counseUing
the Nabob to pursue measures incompatible with the Company's
interest ; and it is supposed he goes to England on account of .
the Nabob to support his cause. Colonel Stuart sets out in a few
days for his command at Tanjour ..."
" George Baker."
[Autograph, 2^ pp., ito.]
[No. 317.]
Tho[ma]s Palk to [Robert Palk, Esq.]
1777, February 6th, Madras. — " However unacceptable
information of this nature may prove, yet it is. Sir, nevertheless,
my indispensable duty to make known to you an event which
I dread will meet with your disapprobation, as well as a dis-
appointment to my father, etc. family ; but I must say that
it would most sensibly grieve me should any one action of my
life, though attending with the most perfect state of felicity to
myself, meet your disapprobation I have connected
myself to the family of Mr. Thomas Pelling'^' by marrying his
fourth daughter. Miss Catharine. With respect to her
accompli[sh]ments it would be absurd in me to sound forth,
but I must do her that justice to say that they are such as no
man would make the least objection to. On the 30th ultimo
our nuptials were celebrated ..."
" Thos. Palk."
[Holograph, 2^ pp., Mo.]
[No. 318.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esq.
1777, October 13th, Fort St. George. — " My last was per his
Majesty's ship Salisbury under date the 28th ultimo . . .
Johnson and Perring arrived here the 6th instant, Charles
'D John Macpherson. Vide No. 270, p. 263, note 2.
(2) Vide No. 250, p. 247, note L
No. 318.] 314
Smith'i' yesterday. Sir Edward Vernon sailed with his squadron
this morning for Trinconomaley and Bombay . . . Stone and
Russell go on the Egmont. Mr. Stratton and his colleagues stay
to take their tryal. They have been admit[t]ed to bail. . .
The new Government'^' have not yet entered on the disposition
of the chiefships or of the places of profit. ... I hope Perring
will not forget your nephew. <2) He has been put in mind of
him, and shows a disposition to serve him ..."
" George Baker."
[Autograph, 2^ pp., Mo. Duplicate.]
[No. 319.J
Rob[ee]t Palk, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esq.].
[Enclosure in a missing letter of date below].
1777, November 20th. — ^An account of remittances to England
by Robert Palk, jun., from 1771 to 1777, aggregating £57,429
2s. 7d.
[4 pp., flscp.]
[No. 320.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, January 29th, Fort St. George. Received 11th August.
— " The last letter that I troubled you with was of the 13th
of last October per Egmont. . . Russell (who married Miss
Leonora Pigot the day before they imbarked) and Stone both
went on the Egmont . . . Messrs. Stratton and Brooke left
this early in December for Anjango, where they imbarked on
a small vessel the 31st of that month for Suez in their way to
Europe. Early in this month the Valantine, in her way hither
from Bengali, ran aground on the shoal between this and Pullicat,
from which she got off with difficulty after haveing thrown over
board the least valuable part of her cargoe, together with most
of her guns, and cutting away all her masts. She is now in this
road prepareing to sail for and dock at Bombay, from whence
she is expected to be here again some four, five or six months
hence to load for Europe ; when it is said Jourdan and Benfield
will take their passage on her thither. I hear nothing of Floyer
or Lathom's proceeding to Europe at present." Monckton and
his family and Colonel Ross,<^' the Chief Engineer, are sailing for
England immediately.
" Messrs. J. Whitehill, C. Smith, S. Johnson and P. Perring,
constituteing our present Board of Government, go on calmly
(1) Charles Smith, Samuel Johnson and Peter Perring were members of the new
Council nominated by the Directors in June, 1777.
(2) Thomas Palk, in whom Perring, as a Devonian, was interested.
(3) Patrick Ross was commissioned to the Royal Engineers after a year's previous
work with the Royal Artillery, and saw much active service in the West Indies as
well as in India and at the Cape. In 1770 he joined the Company as Chief Engineer,
Madras, with the rank of Lieut.-Colonel. To him Fort St. George owed its final
reform and completion. He retired in 1802 when Major-General.
315 [No. 320.
with the administration of public affairs, though the empty
state of the Company's treasury has been rather an imbarrassing
circumstance. But the Board haveing been successful! in a
deputation of Mr. Perring to the Rajah of Tanjore for antici-
pateing the payment of the annual four lacks, that circumstance
has set them afloat again . . . We really see the fortifica-
tions at the north east and south east angles of the town
carrying on briskly . . .
" Party still subsists in the Settlement . . . Mackay has
prosecuted Monckton for fifty thousand pound damages, as
haveing been a principal means of causeing what he calls an
illegal inquest being held on the body of Lord Pigot,(i' by
which he (Mackay, etc.) were charged with a heinous crime
and put to much trouble and expence. It is said that the
coroner'2' is to be prosecuted apart and the jury joyntly for
what they call a conspiracy, the Judges at Bengali haveing
declared that the President and Council of Fort St. George
have no legal authority to appoint a coroner.
" Your nephew is appointed Paymaster of Chingleput, a
place equal to his expectations, and in obtaining which he must,
I am perswaded, have had Perring's interest . . . The
Nabob has lyquidated his newjdebt, which is said to amount to
some sixty or sixty-five lacks of pagodas, which is now become
a new consolidation, for payment of which his creditors have
received certain assignments of revenue. It is said there is
about five lack of the old debt unpaid. . . .
" I have just had a letter from Mr. R. Kennaway at Bengali
of the 31st ultimo, by which it appears he has been lately ill,
but is now recovered ; though by the advise of his friends he
intends to take a trip hither for the reestablishment of his
health. I expect him dayly, shall endeavor to accommodate
him while here, and make no doubt but (under God) the good
Doctor Pasley, with the pure air of Madrass, will soon confirm
him in his former state of health. Mr. J. Kennaway was well
in December last . . .
" My affair'^) continues still in an unsettled state. As
Rumbold'*' is expected soon, I am willing to see if, on his
(1) At an inquest held on the body of Lord Pigot on the llth May, 1777, the
jury brought in a verdict of wilful murder against Stratton, Fletcher, Brooke, Floyer,
Palmer, Jourdan, Mackay, Stuart, Edington, Lysaght and Home. A case was
begun at the Quarter Sessions in September, but the proceedings were quashed in
November.
(2) Immediately after the revolution the Majority ordered the removal of George
Andrew Bam, a civil servant of 1767, from the office of Coroner, and appointed a
successor. Ram maintained that his supersession was illegal, and he held the
inquest on Lord Pigot. George Smith was the foreman of the jury.
(*) The water supply of the Port, for which Baker had contracted in 1771. The
project embraced a pipe line from the ' Seven Wells,' north of Black Town, and
storage cisterns under the ramparts of Port St. George.
(*) Thomas Rumbold entered the Madras civil service in 1752, but was trans-
ferred to the army. He served under Lawrence at Trichinopoly, accompanied Clive
to Calcutta and was wounded at Plassey. Reverting to the civil service, he satin
the Bengal Council from 1766 to 1769, returned to England, entered Parliament,
and served as a Director of the Company from 1772 until he was appointed Governor
of Madras. He was created a baronet in 1779.
No. 320.] 316
assumeing the Government, it can be fairly and fully adjusted.
It is too long and too perplexed a story for me to trouble you
with. I have only to say at present that I am very sure that I
have in every instance done justly ; and it yet remains to be
proved that I have, as my adversarys or enemyes would insinuate,
erred in judgement. It is hard, very hard, that my contract
should be made a loosing one for no other reasons but because,
if I am suffered to compleat it, it may be advantage[ou]s. . . .
Mr. Wynch has done me an irreparable injury. I know not
whether to blame the defects of his head or those of his heart
most for it. I wish not to live for any other thing so much as
to confront that man in a Court of Justice or in a General Court
of Proprietors. But the chance is against me. I have but too
much reason to fear that may never happen ; so that I may dye
under a load of reproach and without the possibility of justifying
myself. But pardon me ; of this no more . . ."
" George Baker."
[Autograph, 6 pp., flscp.]
[No. 321. J
MuDoo KiSTNA to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, January 30th, Fort St. George. — " I addressed a letter to
your honour by ship Egmont, giving you an account of the
situation of my affairs, and which I hope hath reached safe to
your hands ; since which I have plainly discovered that the
Nabob, upon bare supposition of my being the cause of the
restoration of the Tan j ore country, not only hindered me from
being employed in my usual station, but raises several calumnious
stories, being assisted by his second son Madarul Mullock'^', to
hurt myself and family. You are very sensible of my attachment
and faithful discharge of my duty to the Honble. Company
and my services to their friends and Allies. ... I therefore
humbly hope and have firm dependance on your goodness that
you will be pleased to engage your interest to remove all
obstacles that may be thrown [in] my way both by the Nabob
and his friends at home, and procure the restoration of my
employ. ..."
" MuDOO KiSTNA."
[Autograph, 2 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 322.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, March 5th, Fort St. George. Received 5th November. —
" Mr. R. Kennaway arrived here the beginning of February last.
He is much better, and in a fair way of being restored to his
former health soon. He sets out to-morrow on a visit to your
nephew Mr. Thomas Palk at Chingleput. . . . The Duke'
of Kingston (by which ship this comes) . . . arrived here
(1) Madar-ul-Mulk, i.e. Amir-ul-TJmara.
317 [No. 322.
a few days since from Bengali. . . . Mrs. Parry,<i* Mrs. Hessman
and a Mrs. Shaw were passengers on her for Europe, but it is
said that Mrs. Parry has some thoughts of staying here. . . .
Mr. and Mrs. Floyer and Colonel and Mrs. Ross take their
passages on her. . . .
"The Bes[s]borough and Lord North, with Mr. Rumbold,
General Monroe/^) Sir J. Day,'^' etc., arrived here the 8th of
last month, all well. The Government being again established,
we enjoy domestick quiet, and party resentment, it is to be hoped,
will in a reasonable time wear away. The new Governor being
of course busy, ... I have not yet had a proper opportunity
to speak to him on my affair. Some thing must, however, be
finally resolved on between this and next October. My state
of health and time of life will not allow me to play with time
any longer. . . .
" The French, under the direction of Saint Luban,**' have
hoisted their colours at Choul, a place you know on the sea
coast in the Maratah dominions a little to the south of Bombay.
, . . The Government of Bombay did some two months'
since apply to this Presidency for troops. The answer returned
was that they could take no step of that kind without the
approbation of the Government General, but that they would,
as they did, write to Bengali on the subject. . . .
" The Company haveing ordered a Court of Enquiry into
General Stuart's conduct respecting the late revolution here,
he, instead thereof, has requested- an immediate court-martial
without that previous formality ; but the Board, it is said, have
declined a complyance with that request. . . . And it is
said that his six months' suspension, which expired on the last
day of the last month, is continued. . . . The General has
many friends in the army, that corps considering him as theirs.
Major Home, Captains Lysaght and Edington are ordered to
repair to the Presidency. . . . While General Stuart's [conduct]
remains unimpeached at martial law, theirs (who acted under
his orders) may perhaps be unimpeachable . . . God send a
speedy end to this unlucky business. . . ."
" George Baker."
[P.S.] — " This letter was wrote but a few hours when I
(1) Mrs_. Parry, n^e Emelia Vansittart.
^2) Major General Hector Munro, Commander-in-Chief, Madras. Munro went
to India in 1761 as Major of the 89th Eegiment, and three years later he won the
battle of Buxar. In October, 1778, on the outbreak of war with France, he took
Pondicherry, for which he received the knighthood of the Bath. His inertia,
however, in 1780 contributed to the annihilation of BailUe's force by Haidar All,
and led to his own dismissal from the Company's service in 1782.
(3) Sir John Day, Advocate General, Bengal, remained at Madras during the
inquiry into the causes of the late revolution.
(*) A person calling himself the Chevalier de St. Lubin, who professed to have
an intimate knowledge of Haidar All's plans, had been employed in 1768 as
intelhgence officer to the Field Deputies with Colonel Smith at Kolar. In May,
■1777, he appeared at Poona as a genuine emissary from the King of Prance with
letters and gifts for the Peshwa. Nana Farnavis gave him ^he use of the port Of
*{/baul in return for a promise of armed assjstanpe,
No. 322.] 318
accidentally heard that Mr. Monroef" (who was Paymaster of
Chinglepat at the time of the revolution in our Government,
but who had been dismissed the service by Mr. Stratton . . .)
had been restored to that office, and set out to take charge of it
yesterday. So that Mr. Kennaway is not only disappointed in
his journey, but, what is far worse, Mr. Palk of his place. The
former inconvenience we can easyly remedy, but as to the latter
it depends on Mr. Palk's friends and good fortune to supply a
substitute."
[Autograph, 5| pp., flscp.]
[No. 323.]
MuDoo KisTNA to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, March 14th, Fort St. George. — " Mr. Rumbold arrived
on Sunday, the 8th February, and succeeded to the Government.
I went and paid my respects to him, and soon after presented a
letter to him together with a representation containing an
account of my long service to the Company beginning in the
year 1747, and how I was prevented by Mr. Stratton in the
execution of my office without cause, but he has not yet given
me any answer.
" The Nabob and his son Madarul Mulk, in direct opposition
to justice, are still busy in hurting and ruining myself and
family. I do not know what to say to them. As they are
princes they think that nobody can oppose or contradict their
assertions, or call them to an account. I have the pleasure to
hear that Governor Rumbold is your friend, and hope therefore
that you will be so kind as to write to him what is necessary in
my behalf to protect me and family against the insults and
malicious proceedings of the Nabob and his said son, and
likewise about the restoration of my employ. . . ."
" MuDOO KiSTNA."
[Autograph, 2 pp., Uo. Duplicate.]
[No. 324.]
Colonel Gilbert Ironside to Robert Palk, Esq., London.
1778, March 22nd, Calcutta. — I have not replied earlier to
your letter of the 20th December, 1776, in consequence of press
of work and " some particular incidents which lately occurred
here, and which General Caillaud will . . . communicate ....
A whole budget of papers had I collected for your amusement,
and had commenced a long narrative in illustration of them,"
but these must wait a subsequent despatch. Meanwhile I
must refer to another matter. The approaching termination
of the Company's charter renders probable the advent of a
number of King's officers, or possibly the amalgamation of the
King's and Company's forces in India. Before such a con-
tingency can occur it is important to me to secure promotion.
(I) Bobert Punpan Mvnro, Vide No. 33, p. 55, noti? S,
319 [No, 324.
1 have accordingly applied to General Caillaud and other friends
in England to obtain for me a brevet as brigadier, with an order
for succession to Brigadier-General Stibbert when that officer
leaves for England. As I am now, after 20 years' service, the
senior colonel on the Bengal hst, such grant of rank will injure
no-one and cost the Company nothing. I hope my application
may receive your support.
" Gilbert Ironside."
" P.S. — After perusal of the accompanying papers, permit
me to request your communication of them to General Caillaud."
[Holograph. 4 pp., 4to.]
[Enclosures : The papers mentioned in the postscript above
appear to have been eight in number, of which Nos. 2 and 3
have not been traced*^'.]
No. 1. Copy of letter dated Fort William, 22nd June, 1777,
from Warren Hastings and Richard Harwell to Colonel
Ironside, commanding the 3rd Brigade in the field.
" Whereas General Clavering has thought proper to
assume to himself the title, place and office of Governor
General of this Presidency," we submitted the proceedings
of the Board on this matter to the Chief Justice and Judges
for opinion. General Clavering and Mr. Francis presented
to the same authorities the Directors' orders relative to
the appointment of Governor General. A copy of the
Judges' opinion is now transmitted to you for publication
in General Orders.
[lp.,flscp.]
No. 4. Copy of Resolutions [by the Board, dated 23rd June,
1777].
Resolved that by his usurpation of the office of Governor
General Lieut. -General Clavering has thereby relinquished
his offices of Senior Counsellor and Commander-in-Chief;
that Richard Barwell be appointed Senior Counsellor;
that the office of Commander-in-Chief no longer exists,
and that Lieut. -General Clavering be not admitted to
meetings of the Council.
[H P-> flscp.]
No. 5. Copy of Minute by Mr. Francis, dated Revenue Board,
2Uh June [1777].
Advances arguments for reversing the resolutions of
the 22nd June'^' regarding General Clavering. Points
out that he and Clavering had acquiesced in the opinion
given by the Judges, and states that he himself now appears
as " mediator of peace and amity in Council." Argues
that under the Act of 1773 Clavering's seat in Council is
d' No. 2 was probably a copy of the Judges' opinion, delivered on the 20th June,
that the assumption of oflSoe by Clavering was illegal ; and No. 3 a copy of the letter
from Clavering and Francis to the Judges acquiescing in their decision.
(2) An error for 23rd June. Cf. Hastings' letter to Sykes of gOth June. {Life
of Warren Hctstings, Gleig, ii., 151.)
No. 324.] 320
not vacant, and that the Board has no power to dismiss
the Commander-in-Chief in respect of his authority outside
Bengal.
[2f pp., flscp.]
No. 6. Copy of letter, dated Fort William, 2Uh June, 1777,
from E. Impey, R. Chambers, S. C. Lemaistre and J. Hyde
to the Honble. Warren Hastings, Esq., Governor General, and
the Gentlemen of the Council.
We have " this morning " received a letter from General
Clavering and Mr. Francis relative to your resolution of
" yesterday," declaring vacant the offices held by General
Clavering. Though we have not on this occasion received
any representation from you, yet, as we regard the present '
question as part of the transaction on which you lately
asked for our decision, we now deliver the opinion that your
Board has not the power to remove a member from the
Council nor declare his seat vacant.
[11 p., flscp.]
No. 7. Copy of Extract of the Proceedings of the Governor
General and Council, dated 25th June, 1777.
" Resolved that the Board do recede from putting in
execution all their resolutions passed since the 20th instant,
which can in any wise prevent the General from the full
and immediate exercise of his several offices ..."
\_lp.,flscp.]
No. 8. Copy of letter, dated Fort William, 25th June, 1777,
from Warren Hastings, J. Clavering, R. Barwell and P.
Francis to Colonel Ironside, commanding the 3rd Brigade
in the field.
We transmit copies of a letter from the Supreme Court
and Government resolution thereon, direct their publi-
cation in General Orders, and revoke all orders issued
[?since] the 19th instant which have a contrary tendency.
[1 p., flscp.]
No. 325.
Henry Vansittart, jun., to [Robert Palk, Esq.]
1778, April 24th, Calcutta. — " The eldest Kennaway has been
obliged to visit the Coast for the recovery of his health . . .
His brother is present in the scene of emolument, deriving very
considerable advantages from his situation in Asoph-ud-
Dowlah's'i' country.
" We dread a revolution in our Government by the first packet
from Europe. ... I am not very apprehensive of one my-
self, provided the news of the General's'^' death should have
reached England before a new Act of Parliament passed. We
(1) Asaf-ud-daula, Nawab of Oudh, who succeeded on the death of hjs father
Shuja-ud-daula in January, 1775.
(3) Sir John Clavering died in August, 1777,
321 [No. 325.
think the Minister will be obliged to lay India affairs before
Parliament in order to restrain the authority of the Supreme
Court.
" I think the expedition into the country of the Mahrattoes,
though apparently the troops are only to pass through it in
their way to Bombay, may raise a clamour at home. However,
the Government defends the measure with many plausible
arguments, and declares it will produce a good effect even if the
troops should be obliged to return. The French had certainly
been intriguing with the Mahrattas, and it is a maxim well
known to foreigners that the only method of establishing them-
selves in India is by connecting themselves with the country
Powers.
" I am obliged to you for interesting yourself in my concerns,
and be assured that I have no friend on. whom I can place more
reliance, and none whose good offices are more pleasing . . . ."
" Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 326.]
Tho[ma]s Peixing to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, October 11th, Madras. — I have pleasure in acceding
to your wish that I should become one of your attorneys in
concert with Mr. d'Fries.
" Your nephew, Mr. T. Palk, was appointed Paymaster at
Chenglaput when the arrangement was made on Mr. Whitehill's
arrival last year, where he would have been happily situated
for a few years ; but had the mortification to be recalled by
the Governor and Council, who, on the arrival of Mr. Rumbold,
received orders from the Court of Directors to restore the young
gentlemen that were under suspension to their former stations.
He has the promise of being provided for, but favourites and
weighty recommendations will ever be predominant, so that
he must rest content and look forward. I have no reason to
find fault with his conduct since marriage, and should be happy
he regained your former paternal affection by convincing him
of it in a line from vourself. ..."
"Thos. Pelling."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4fo. Duplicate.]
[No. 327.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Robert Palk, Esq.].
1778, October 15th, Fort St. George. Received 11th Sep-
tember, 1779. — " I am sorry to acquaint you that poor Snelling'"
departed this life the 17th of August in Madras. His station
for six years past has been in the Cicacole district (so fatal to
(I) Ueut. J, Snelling. Vide No, 267, p. 261,
No. 327.] 322
many), and had been at death's door several times. Even those
who have the slightest attack of that pernicious disorder,
though survive, never get quit of it. He made a will, leaving
what little money he was worth to a child and its mother, which
I have taken care of for the present, as I hope that Snelling's
friends will send for it. I am told it is very white, having not
yet seen it. My having no knowledge of Snelling's relations,
who they are and where they are, is the reason of my troubling
you, Sir, with this information."
I learn with much satisfaction from Mr. Baker that Mrs. Palk
has recovered from her late indisposition.
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4-to.]
[No. 328.]
MuDOO KiSTNA to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, *October 15th, Fort St. George. — I have received no
satisfactory reply from Governor Rumbold to my application
for reinstatement — a result which I attribute to the malign
influence of the Nawab and his son, who suspect me of being the
cause of the rendition of Tanjore. It is hard that I should
suffer when all the Company's servants who were suspended by
Mr. Stratton's Government have been restored to the service..
My desire for reinstatement is due to a regard for my reputation,
as well as for the sake of my son Choliappa, who has been trained'
in native languages in view to his becoming useful to the Com-
pany. I beg that you will use your influence with the Directors
on my behalf, and also write to Mr. Rumbold.
" MUDOO KiSTNA."
[Autograph, 3 pp., 4to.]
[No. 329.]
Edward Cotsford*!* to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, October 17th, Madrass. Received 17th March, 1779.—
" We arrived here safe and sound on the 16th of August last,
meeting with our greatest risque when we imagined the cares
of the voyage over. Not knowing of our differences with the
French, we passed within sight of Pondicherry and their fleet
at anchor in the road. When we came off the place in the morn-
ing we saw a ship astern crowding after us. At the same time
one of those in the road slipped from her anchor and gave us
chace. She sailed ill, and the one astern was still too far oft to
do any thing with us. After a chace of upwards of twenty miles,
when the largest began to near us very fast, we saw six sail
ahead, and about a quarter of an hour afterwards the two
Frenchmen hauled their wind and stood to the eastward. The
falling in with Sir Edward Vernon (for they proved to be his
(1) Vide No. 183, p. 199, note 1,
323 [No. 329.
squadron) I believe saved us. English ships in the situation
of those Frenchmen would certainly have shewn a better
conduct.
" We have had open trenches before Pondicherry for some
time, where we have met with more opposition than was
expected. Considering we were masters of the time for declaring
hostilities with the French, it appears to me that the greatest
advantage has not been made of so very commanding a privilege.
Before discovering our purpose we might have received every
kind of information respecting the works of Pondicherry, the
strength of the garrison, the quantity of stores and provisions,
and numberless other particulars, a knowledge of which might
have put it in our power to have carried the place by surprize,
or have prepared us for the difficulties we have met with ; for
our experience has shewn that we held them too cheap, having
either made too light of their strength or given ourselves credit
for too much. What I have said is merely my private opinion,
and I give it with some diffidence lest I should be mistaken.
We have had a great deal of rain lately, which has impeded our
operations, and, considering the season of the year, great vigour
and expedition is necessary. Indeed we expect every hour to
hear that the business is decided.
" A resolution very detrimental to an increase of reputation
and my private interest has been lately adopted here — I mean
the calling all the Zemindars up to the Presidency, and in a great
measure taking the business of that chiefship out of the hands
of the Chief and Council. This, together with other particulars,
makes me apprehensive the Otterton'^' estate will not come
within my grasp. I have desired Mr. Webster to wait upon you
for your opinion. He will shew you my letter to him, and
likewise the copy of one which I have writ to Mr. Wombwell'^'
by this dispatch, which treats on the affairs of Masulipatam ....
" Advices are just now received from camp that the Governor
of Pondicherry has sent out a flag of truce desiring permission
to send out propositions for a capitulation. God grant it may
terminate successfully, for much depends upon that event.
" My situation here is extreamly disagreeable, as all the
Zemindars are now here, and when they will return I cannot
tell.
" If the state of things should put it in your power to serve
me towards my promotion in this country, your 'assistance
will always be very gratefully acknowledged by me. My.
presumption grows in seeing the small abilities of the present
Governor and Council. ..."
" Edward Cotsford."
{Holograph, 5 pp., Uo.]
_^ — _ — __ — . , ,
(1) A village between Sidmouth and Exmouth near the mouth of the Otter.
(21 George Wombwell, Chairman of the Company in 1777 and 1778, was created
fV bfirouet in the latter year,
324
[No. 330.]
Chocapaii to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, October 19th, Fort St. George. — " I have the pleasure
to inform your Honour that Mr. Bellecombe, the French
Governour, and his Council were at last obhged to surrender the
Fort and town of Pondicherry to General Munro by capitulation
yesterday under the following terms : — That private fortunes
of the white and black inhabitants of Pondicherry are to be
secured to themselves, and they are to be permitted to carry
them where they please ; the fortifications [and] the houses
belonging to the Government and the inhabitants both white
and black are not to be destroyed untill they further hear from
Europe ; the French troops and the French gentlemen are
surrendered themselves prisoners of war to his Britan[n]ick
Majesty on condition thej^ are permitted to proceed to Europe
under the cost of the English. . . .
" We the inhabitants under the English protection are very
well secured by the present victory, as we shall certainly be
under no apprehension from the French, who can do nothing
in these part[s] of the world during the present war, as they
have no Settlement in the East Indies to send their forces and
land them. . . ."
" Chocapah."
[Azdograph, 2 pp., 4sto.]
[No. 331.]
Philip Stowey'^' to [Robert Palk, Esq.].
1778, October 21st, Madrass. — " After a passage of six
months I arrived here safe and well. The Settlement at that
time did not seem very flattering to my views on account of a
determined war carrying on against the French in these parts ;
but as great success[es] have attended it since, and particularly
so in the reduction of Pondicherry, things now bear a much
better aspect, and I have no doubt but the purposes of my
coming here will on the long run be fully answered, provided I
continue in health. . . .
" I have been called into employ, and have formed plans for
an alteration and enlargement to the Admiralty building,*^'
which is now carrying into execution. Your and Mr. Call's
letters were received by Mr. Rumbold with seeming attention,
and I was flattered with ideas of his intention to serve me, but
that is all to come . . . Yesterday I had the honor of an
audience with his Highness the Nabob, who, on delivery of your
and Mr. Call's letters, received me very gratiously and requested
my assistance in the way of my profession. He is building at
(1) Philip Stowey was appointed Civil Architect at Madras by the Company,
with liberty to undertake private worl^.
(2) Vide No. 216, p. 223, note 2,
a^S [No. 331.
the Durbarrd' in the Moorish stile, and I fear has gone on too
far to be prevailed on to alter it."
Details of the siege of Pondicherry you will hear from other
sources. " Our batteries against that place were opened the
18th of last month, and after a noble defence, in which the brave
Belcombe'2' have gained much honor, the Fort was surrendered
the 17th instant. Our loss of men is not inconsiderable, par-
ticularly officers, among which fell Major Stephins,!^) Chief
Engineer. A man of good abihties and most indefatiguable
in the exercise of his profession, his loss is uni\'ersally lamented
here. Mr. Baker, for whom I brought a letter from you, is now
almost inconsolable for the loss of his son,(*' who was also killed
before Pondicherry. . . ."
" Philip Stowey."
{Holograph, 2f pp.. Mo.]
[No. 832.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, October 31st, Fort St. George. Received 27th March,
1779. — Since writing to you on the 19th instant I learn that
" our Grenadiers . . . marched in at the Villinour Gate and
entered into the town of Pondicherry a little before 5 o'clock
the 18th in the evening, and [a] little before 6 of the same
evening the French troops with their officers marched out,
colours flying and drums beating, to the glacis, where they piled
their arms and were received prisoners of war by a party of our
troops commanded by Captain Lysaght, and marched about a
mile beyond our camp, where they remained that night ; and
next day they marched down to Madrass, and arrived here the
28th. They were about five hundred prisoners and about
forty officers, part of which they keep prisoners in the Black
Town,'^' and the rest sent down to Poonamally,'^* where they
remain prisoners ; and the officers are set at liberty upon their
parole, to live here and at St. Thome. The Company allows
them the usual allowance." I hear " they have also about
two hundred more French prisoners in the hospital at Pondi-
cherry", who are to be brought here by sea.
" Mr. Bellecombe, Mr. Law, and the rest of the gentlemen of
Council and other private merchants and the French inhabitants
are still at Pondicherry." M. Bellecombe is expected here early
next month. " The French frigate that was in the Road of
(1) The Nawab's palace at Chepauk. Cf. No. 206, p. 218, note 2.
(21 General Bellecombe, Governor of Pondicherry.
(3) William Stevens joined the Madras Engineers as Ensign in 1764, and was
employed in the following year in a siirvey of Adam's Bridge in Palk Strait. He
served as Captain at the siege of Tanjore in 1773, and was promoted Major in 1774.
In 1778, when acting as Chief Engineer during the absence of Colonel Ross in
England, he was killed by a cannon shot in the trenches before Pondicherry.
(*) Ensign George Baker.
'5) These prisoners were lodged in a building known as the ' Company's Granary, '
which occupied the site of the present Custom House.
(6) Poonamallee, 15 miles west of Madras, possessed a fort and barracks.
No. 332.] 326
Pondicherry is permitted to go to Mauritius and from thence to
France." After the surrender General Munro received the
merchants and other native inhabitants with much civihty, and
allowed them to reside and carry on business under British
protection. The Governor and Council also granted permission
to the^ gentlemen and other residents of French nationality to'
remain and trade, provided they took an oath of fideUty to the
Government.
" General Munro returned from Pondicherry this morning.
Captain William Rumbold (our Governor's son) is ready to take
his passage with all the news on the Cormorant, now under
dispatch for England. . . ."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 3| pp., Uo.]
[No. 383.]
Messrs. Pelling & de Fries to Robert Palk, Esq.
1778, November 1st, [Madras]. Received 17th March, 1779. —
" We have desired Lord Shelburne to send us directions about
the bills we have in our hands belonging to him. There is no
likelyhood of its being paid in India now that poor Mr.
McLeane'i' is lost !
" We hope that you will be able to procure payment from
Mr. Stone in England. We can't learn that he has any property
here besides his houses. '2* We find by Comroo's will, which
was proved in court, that Mr. Stone is considerably indebted
to Comroo, and it has been reported that Mr. Benfield (between
whom and Mr. Stone there was not much affection subsisting)
endeavored to take along with him Mr. Stone's bond to Comroo,
that he might recover if in England, but we don't know
absolutely for certain whether he has taken it along with him
or not. We thought it was necessary to give you a hint ....
" The Nabob since the fall of Pondicherry has promised to
make a dividend to his creditors. God send he may keep his
word. The whole Settlement is in want very much of pay-
ments from him. Whenever we are in cash we shall endeavor
to remit to you to the best advantage, for we think your property
will be safer nearer you than at this distance. India is a
country of revolution, and we think we shall always be subject
to it."
" Pelling & de Fries."
[2J pp., Uo.]
[No. 334.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esq.
-1779, March 22nd, Fort St. George. Received 2nd January,
1780. — " This is purposely to inclose'^) to you copy of a letter
(1) Colonel Lauchlau Macluane. Cf. No. 169, p. 189, note 2.
(2) John MaxweU Stone owned two houses in'port St. George, one in St. Thom^
Street and one in Charles Street.
(3) Enclosures not found.
327 [No. 334.
wrote by the Nabob's new consolidated creditors to the Governor
and Select Committee, and also extract of their letter to the Court
of Directors, recommending the business of the creditors to
them. I act in it as a trustee for the Nabob, and our house are
creditors to a considerable amount. The failure of payment
from the Nabob (occasioned chiefly by the pressing calls upon
him for money by the Company's agents here) has thrown the
whole Settlement in the greatest distress imaginable, and unless
some measure be taken by Government to procure satisfaction
and relief to the creditors, who constitute the greatest part of
the British subjects in this place and the other Settlements in
India, it must end in their total ruin. As it is, there is hardly
any trade subsisting in the place at present, and an entire loss
of private credit and confidence.
"•As this matter will merit the most serious attention on the
part of the Company, may I beg your interest and assistance
when it comes to be debated at a General Court or otherwise ;
in doing of which I assure you it will be rendering service to the
cause of the English in India in general, and to this once flourish-
ing Settlement in particular ; and I dare say many in England
will find themselves in a very disagreable situation if the interest
at least on this fund is not regularly discharged. ..."
" John d'Fries."
[Autograph, 2 pp., Uo. Duplicate.]
[No. 335.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Robert Palk, Esq.
. 1779, October 15th, Fort St. George.— " I have already
informed you of the cause of my removal from the paymastership
of Chinglaput. It was a cruel stroke upon me indeed. However,
Sir, I flatter myself that you and Mr. Sulivan will endeavor to
get me some appointment. I have been out of employ ever
since, and see no probability of being otherwise, notwithstanding
Mr. Rumbold has so often engaged his word of honor to serve
me, and as often forfeited it. Never was a man so universally
disliked. He employs people not in the service, and gives away
places to the youngest servants which the oldest would grasp
at ; takes away places and gives it to others, and such like
conduct. There is scarce a foot of land between this and
Ganjam but he has sold. The Guntoor Circar the Nabob is to
have, or has it. The Jaghire'^' in December last was adver-
tized to be lett, but it did not take place, because of course the
Nabob paid handsomely for it. But what could the country
otherwise expect from a man of his stamp ? The seeds of
corruption have so effectually taken root that I do not think it
possible to eradicate {them]. Gaming is arrived to that height
that it requires the most vigorous measures to break the spirit
of it, and to begin with the Select Committee. I dined with the
(1) Vide No. 118, p. 146, note 3.
No. 335.] 328
Governor a few days ago, when he proposed a rubber, which of
course was readily assented to. The party consisted of the
Governor, Mr. Plumer.'i' Lieutenants Low and Malcolm'^', which
was scarce begun when dinner came upon table, and kept 60
people waiting for its being finished.
" The Circars will soon be in the state of the Nabob's country.
The Zemindars were so very handsomely squeezed when they
were called down last year that I hear the zemindaries are in a
state of depopulation owing to the oppression of the Zemindars,
Thus, Sir, you have but a slight view of our situation, though it
may convey a strong idea. Mr. Cotsford will no doubt give
you a better view of it than I am able, though not with more
truth. The Company are sinking so very gradually step by
step into mire as if they really intended it, and I am sure their
affairs were never so well conducted as by a Governor and 12
Council,*^' for the less opposition a wicked Governor has to
encounter, the more mischief he can do. You are a Proprietor,
Sir, so therefore for the Company's sake become a Director. I
shall then hope they may still be saved.
" You are indebted. Sir, to Mr. Floyer for his kindnesses to
me, as I am sure it was on your account I received so much
friendship from him. ..."
"Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 3| pp., itc]
[No. 336.]
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esq.
1780, January 16th, Madras. — " Three ships of Sir Edward
Hughes's fleet are arrived, the Superb, Eagle and Nymph, which
were sent forward with the sick of the squadron, being a great
many. The rest of the fleet is expected in a week hence. Mr.
Cuthbert'*' is come," so we shall tender money to him on your
account for Navy bills. Mr. Stone's affairs here are not as he
represented them to his creditors in England, and we shall not
trouble ourselves with them unless we find that we can be of
use to you and others.
" The Maratta war still continues. A few days ago 500
Europeans were sent away from hence to join Colonel Goddard'^'
at Surat. This is an improper time to be quarrelling with the
country Powers and with so powerful a one as the Marrattas.
Hyder seem[s] to be only waiting for an opportunity to break
with us. A great fire happened in November last at Bengal
in the Company's warehouse, which burnt 18 lacks of rupees of
(1) Hall Plumer, a civil servant of 1769.
(2) Probably Hem-y Malcolm (or Malcombe) who entered the Madras army in
1767, and became lieutenant in 1770, and captain in 1779.
(3) Pigofs Council consisted of President and eleven members, including the
C.-in-C. ; Rumbold's of President and four civilian members. °
(*) Arthur Outhbert. Vide No. 57, p. 83, note 5.
(6) Colonel Thomas Goddard superseded' Colonel Leslie in the command of a
Bengal force which marched across India to Surat.
329 [No. 336.
raw silk and piece goods. . . . The treasury at Bengal is very
low. Here on the Coast they can hardly make both ends meet,
the expences of fortification, etc., being very great. We have
heard nothing of any French ships in the Indian seas since the
taking of the Osterley.
" It is said that Mr. Rumbold is to leave us in the course of
March next, having taken his passage on the General Barker.
The Nabob desire[s] his compliments to you and for a con-
tinuance of your friendship. His affairs can hardly be worse
than they are at present, the drain being continual, and the
sources lessening every day. The divided interest in his family
continues as great as ever notwithstanding the death of
Maphauscawn,'!' which happened some months ago. . . ."
" John d'Fries."
[Autograph, 2J pp., ito. Duplicate.]
[No. 337.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Robert Palk, Esq.
1780, January 30th, Fort St. George. — "I had. Sir, flattered
myself that your displeasure would have in some measure
subsided by this time, and that you would have honored me
with a renewal of your correspondence ; but I am unhappy
enough to find myself still lying under it, and unfortunately at
a time that I have more need of your friendship than ever I
had." Being still without employment, I beg you to use your
influence to procure me' some appointment, such as a paymaster-
ship or a seat in the Masulipatam Council. " Mr. R[umbold]
has put me off ever since I was removed from Chinglaput with
the strongest assurances of his serving me. Mr. Sulivan'^' has
interposed in my behalf with him in an uncommon friendly
manner, but without any other success than promises. In
short. Sir, he is blind and deaf to every other consideration but
that of establishing a strong interest at home ; and I hope that
if he does not do something for me, that he will repent he had
not considered it an object to have acquired yours. I do. Sir,
assure you that a King of France was never so absolute as he is
here. Every thing he proposes is carried without the least
opposition. He is now on the point of going home, and Mr.
Whitehill will of course succeed. I could say a great deal, but
at present it would not be prudent. I shall say this much,
that the Company is sinking into ruin as fast as possible. . . .
" We have accounts that Colonel Goddard has at last taken
the field against the Morattoes. A detachment has been sent
.from hence of 400 Europeans and 2 battalions of ^epoys, but
they cannot possibly reach Surat till the middle of February.
Hyder-Ally, seeing how we are entangling ourselves, is growing
very troublesome. A vessel in the month of November coming
'D Mahfuz Khan, elder brother of Nawab Walajah.
(2) Stephen Sulivan {Vide No. 189, y. 205), son of Lawrence Sulivan, came to
Madras about 1778 as Secretary and Persian Translator.
No. 337.] 330
down the Malabar Coast was taken by one of his, and carried
into CalUcutt, with six gentlemen and three ladies'" from Europe
by Suez. And 'tis reported that he stopt by the same means
Captain Bonnveau'^) and another gentleman with dispatches
from the Company so late only as August.
" Mr. Grey,'^' that was once in the Bengal Council, has been
pitched upon, in preference to a Company's servant, to go
Ambassador to Hyder. He also had an employ at the siege of
Pondicherry and at Mahe, when at least a dozen Company's
servants were unemployed. But, Sir, this is nothing to other
oppressive acts of Government.
"Sir E. Hughes arrived here with his squadron and nine
Indiamen the 18th instant. He has this day presented his
Majesty's letter to the Nabob. • Sir Edward is extremely well
and hearty, and Sir E. Vernon goes home in an Indiaman much
displeased thereat. Dick Welland is now with me, and is very
much esteemed by the Admiral and officers. He seems to think
it better he had staid at home, as he would be more in the way
of promotion.
" I send this by his Majesty's ship Coventry by way of Suez,
though I am very doubtful of his reaching you safe, for the
gentlemen that have lately come that way met with a great
many difficulties. I have made a mistake. Sir. Captains
Banks**' and Bonnevaux'^' were coming from Bussora, and
[were] taken by the Marattoes and not by Hyder-AUy.
" I shall esteem it a favor [if] you will send me a line for
Mr. Whitehill. My wife is well, and joins me in presenting her
respects to you and Mrs. Palk and love to my cousins. . . ."
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 5 pp., 4<to.]
[No. 338.J
John d'Fries to Robert Palk, Esq.
1780, February 4th, Madras. — " This goes by way of Suez.
The Coventry is sent there to demand satisfaction for the vexation
committed by that Government last year on our people. Sir
Edward Hughes arrived here with the rest of his ships on the
H) The Danish ship Nathalia, from Suez to Bengal, put into Calicut, where she
was seized by Haidar ; and her nine British passengers, including two ladies, were
arrested. Anthony Pay, barrister, and his wife Eliza were confined at Calicut,
and the remainder, among whom were Mr. and Mrs. TuUoh, were carried to Seringa-
patam. All were released after about three months' detention. (Original Letters
from India, Mrs. Pay. 1817.)
(2) Captain Bonnevaux was captured by the Marathas, as stated later in the
letter.
(3) Mr. George Gray was sent to Seringapatam to ask for the release of the
Calicut prisoners. ^
(4) George Banks, Madras Engineers, entered the service in 1774, and retired as
Major in 1791.
(5) Peter Bimnevaux joined the Madras Infantry as Ensign in 1768. In 1782
Captain- Bonnevaux commanded the detachment which sailed with Sir E. Hughes
for the reduction of Trincomalee. He became Lieut.-Colonel in 1794, and died
three years later.
331 [No. 338.
19th ultimo. I applyed to him for Navy bills on your account.
He gave me a civil answer, but desired [me] to send in my
tender, which I have accordingly done.
" Sir Thomas Rumbold'i' goes for certain on the General
Barker, when we shall be left with Mr. Whitehill for our Governor.
I hope nothing will happen to require the exertion of extra-
ordinary abilities, for I beUeve they will not be found in our
Council. The Maratta war continues still. They took lately
Messrs. Bonnivaux and Banks, who were coming over with a
packet from England, which they left in July last.
" Although I have not been able to go out on account of the
inflammation in my eye, which has been a very severe attack
on me, I have intimated to the Nabob what you desired me to
communicate to him. His situation is rather worse, nor do I
see any hkelyhood of its bettering." We reluctantly consented
to act as attorneys for the trustees of Mr. Stone, but only till
others can be appointed. " I am sorry to find that Mr. Stone's
affairs are hkely to turn out much worse than what was
represented to you. We shall do the best with what httle
remains there are here. Colonel McLeane's executors sent out
powers of attorney to Mr. Oakely,'^) Mr. Felling and myself . . .
which we refused, and would have nothing to say to it. . . .
Your nephew Mr. Welland was made a lieutenant at the
Madeira. ..."
[Autograph, 3 pp., Uo.]
John d 'Fries."
[No. 339.]
Stephen Sulivan to [Robekt Palk, Esq.].
1780, February 5th, Fort St. George. — " I return you my
sincere thanks for your obliging enquiries after Mrs. Sulivan's
and my health. Mine, you will hear from Queen Square, has
been exactly the same as when I partook of red mullets with
you in Devonshire. I wish I could speak as favorably of Mrs.
Sulivan, who has suffered severely indeed from this relaxing
climate so inauspicious to women in general. She is, however,
at present considerably recovered, and I trust with suitable care
arid attention will have no more relapses.
" On the arrival of Sir Edward Hughes, he scarce waited for
an introduction of me to him, but took the first opportunity of
mentioning your name and the friendly manner in which you
had been pleased to express a sollicitude for my prosperity,
adding at the same time on his own part he should be happy
to forward my wishes in any way I would point out to him
from the regard he had for his old friend Mr. Palk. . . .
From my father's*^* letters I find you have been equally atten-
'D Bumbold was created a baronet on the 27th March, 1779.
!2I Vide No. 196, p. 21-2, note 1.
(3) Lawrence Sulivan.
No. 339.] 332
tive in desiring Mr. John De Fries to give me his confidence
and advice. No man in the Settlement is better calculated
for such a task from his local knowledge and long experience
in business. ... ■ i j?
"To my father's letters I refer you for particulars ot my
situation, as I have not a secret upon earth I wish concealed
from you. You will there find how mistaken he was when he
attributed to the Nabob any other motives of conduct than an
artful policy operating from fear, without a single remembrance
of past obligations, or a view to present favor but as it may
prove a channel for the gratification of his ambition. Mr.
Macpherson, who must write because he is hired, may employ
volumes to expiscate (in his own elegant new coinage of words)
the reverse ; but men who have no restraints of this kind to
warp or mislead their Judgment are contented with the facts
and the evidence before them.
" My father will likewise explain to you the reasons for my
resigning the Persian Translatorship, which have the sanction of
Mr. De Fries' approbation. When I was given to understand
that not an iota of confidential communication was to pass
through me, but that at best I was to be a mere letter carrier,
it was time to recollect I had a commendable pride about me,
which will prevent me, I hope always, from being insignificant.
The profits of my place of Secretary are so scanty, and the
expence of Madras since your time so increased, that it ceases
any longer to be an object. In short, my dear Sir, I have laid
such stress in my letters to my father on a seat in Council or the
Residency of Tanjore'i' as the only two objects on this Coast
that can enable me to acquire a competency, that I hope you
will use every argument to persuade him to bring either of those
points forward, that it may be settled in the new arrangements
at home, and not left to be done here. ..."
" Stephen Sulivan."
[Holograph, 3| pp.. Mo.]
[No. 340.]
George Baker to Robert Palk, Esq.
1780, February 7th, Fort St. George. Received December — ,
17g0. — " Although it is considered as very doubtfuU whether
(after what has past) an Englishman may be suffered to pass,
unmolested through Egypt with a packet, yet our Government
have found it necessary to make the tryal, and for that purpose
the Company's ketch'^* Nancy is to be dispatched this evening
for Suez or else where in the Red Sea with one Mr. WooUey,'^'
a gentleman in the Nabob's service. Such an opportunity
(1) Stephen .Suliva,n was appointed Resident at Tanjore by the Directors in 1780,
but he resigned the post immediately to become personal assistant to Hastings in
Bengal. He was succeeded in the Residency by John Sulivan.
(2) The " ketch " of the period was rigged as a brigantine.
(3) James >\'oolIey, secretary to the Nawab.
333 [No. 340.
offering, I mean to try if I can get this single sheet into that
packet, just to acknowledge the receipt of your several favors
by the ships that arrived here on the 18th ultimo under convoy
of Sir Edward Hughes. . . .
" Sir Edward is in good health, and is the same good man as
ever. Your nephew, Lieutenant Welland, got a commission at
Madeira. He is a charming youth, modest, manly and discreet,
and in good health and spirrits. He has been on shore some
days, and passes his time with his cousin Palk, Mr. Perring or
myself, to either of which he is, as at many other friends' he soon
will be, welcome."
Our Bengal friends are well, " as is your nephew Mr. T. Palk
and family here. He has not indeed yet got an employ, but
lives in hope of something soon. He is made happy by your
kind remembrance of him, and will, I am clearly and fully per-
swaded, deserve your favor, which no doubt will be conferred
on him. . . .
"As to publick affairs, you will be better informed by your
other correspondents. I have only to wish that the Marattah
war be not at this juncture found an arduous task. As to my
personal affairs, I will not by this conveyance speak of them,
.. . . though I may perhaps touch on that subject by the
March ships. Some time in that month the General Barker,
Ganges, Norfolk and Talbot are to be dispatched from Bengal
and this place for Europe, on some of which it is very confidently
expected that Sir Edward Vernon and Sir Thomas Rumbold
are to take their passage. . . ."
" George Baker."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4to.]
[No. 341.]
Messrs. Pelling & de Fries to Robert Palk, Esq.
1780, February 10th, Madras. — Contains particulars of
remittances made to England by Navy bills and otherwise for
Robert Palk and Robert Palk, jun., and of the latter's risk on a
Respondentia bond.
[2 pp., Uo.}
[No. 342.]
The Case of Robert Palk, jun., on board the Surprise.
[By Surgeon Adam Burt.]
1783, April 3rd, Calcutta.—" Agreed to attend as surgeon to
Robert Palk, Esq., during his voyage to Europe in the Surprise
packet. This gentleman appears to be about 38 or 40 years of
age. He is of a spare habit of body ; has been at least 20 years
in India, and for the most part very healthy during that time.
Mr. Campbell, '1' the Surgeon General, informs me that Mr. Palk
has had more than one very severe fall within these last two or
three years ; particularly once when he was walking on the
(I* Daniel Campbell, Surgeon General in Bengal
No. 342.] 334
roof of a house, which in this country is generally flat ; it gave
way under his feet, and he fell through from a very considerable
height. From this his system in general received a shock, the
effects of which confined him several days. However, no
remarkable symptoms followed as a consequence immediately
after this or any other accident which happened to him.
" Mr. Campbell also informed me that, as Mr. Palk was riding
on horseback some weeks ago, he suddenly fell to the ground
without any apparent cause. The nearest medical assisstants
were instantly called : they found him in a state of insensibility, "
laying as if asleep. It was imagined that some injury had been
received from the fall, and phlebotomy was performed. He
gradually recovered his senses; but was affected with spasms,
or as he himself expressed it, startings of the muscles of one side
of his body. His face was also much distorted. Mr. Stark,'^'
Surgeon at Calcutta, took more blood from him, but I do not
know what medicines were prescribed. In two or three days
after this first attack he was seized with a fit, which Mr.
Campbell says was of the apoplectic or epileptic kind. Since
then he has had several returns of epileptic fits."
Diary.
" 16th April. Mr. Palk is in good spirits. The spasms of
one side are not so frequent as usual, but his face is considerably
distorted. He takes pills of assafoetida as prescribed for him
by Mr. Campbell.
" 17th. He says that ' he had a slight touch of his disorder
last night, but he sleeped it away.' Mr. Campbell and Mr. Stark
thought it adviseable to put a seton in his neck, which I have
performed this day. He is pretty chearful, but his tongue is
swelled . . . and he pronounces his words with much difficulty.
" 18th. This afternoon, as Mr. Palk and I were sitting on
the quarter deck, he started up very suddenly from his seat,
and without having time to utter a single word he fell down in
violent convulsions, which continued near a quarter of an hour.
. . . He soon recovered his senses, but continued very languid
during the remainder of the day." I prescribed camphor,
antimony wine and assafoetida.
" 21st. Very free from spasms ; pronounces his words with
uncommon ease ; is chearful. . . .
" 23rd. Mr. Palk had a fit this morning." I prescribed
valerian root.
" 26th. He had a fit this morning at 6 o'clock ; is very
languid ; his tongue is exceedingly swelled. ..." I gave
camphor and valerian.
" 29th. The spasms are abated, and the distortion of his
face is scarcely perceptible.
" 1st May. Mr. Palk is in excellent spirits.
" 3rd. He is almost entirely free from spasms ; tongue not,
(1> Surgeon James Stark^, ' ^ "■"
385 [No. 342.
so much swelled, and he speaks with ease. I continue the
camphor and valerian," and also the antimonial wine.
" 4th. Mr. Palk appears as if in perfect health. Medicines
as formerly.
" 8th. The ease which Mr. Palk has enjoyed for some time
is too soon interrupted. He had a fit this morning about four
o'clock. . . .
" 9th. Mr. Palk had another severe attack last night, and
was extremely languid this morning.
" 11th. The spasms of his muscles are very frequent,
particularly of the right side of the body. . . .
" 12th. • Mr. Palk had another fit this morning. After the
convulsions were over he remained comatose for a considerable
time ; is very languid. Medicines given as formerly. . . .
" 13th. To-day he is in extraordinary good spirits ; walked
the deck in the evening for a considerable time, and is pretty
free from spasms. . . .
" 14th. Mr. Palk was seized with his disorder this morning
about 5 o'clock. The convulsions were uncommonly severe.
When these abated he remained without any signs of life for
several minutes. ... At length breathing sucpeeded, but
that more laborious than I ever saw in any other case. By
degrees it became more moderate, but he remained comatose,
at least for the most part. He is now and then seized with
violent convulsions, which gradually terminate in an universal
tremor, and leaves him insensible. ... In the evening the
convulsions were very alarming. ..." I accordingly bled him.
" 15th. We have been becalmed these 2 or 3 days in 2 degrees
N. latitude. Mr. Palk remains insensible and in a comatose
state, but frequently seized with convulsions. . . .
" 16th. Mr. Palk does not recover his senses in the least.
..." I applied blisters to his temples.
" 17th. He gives some signs of returning sensibility, but
remains speechless. He is restless, and twists his body into
many very awkward postures. . . .
" 18th. During last night Mr. Palk appeared to be in great
agony. His cries were dreadful. The unnatural exertions of
his body were so great that it required two men to keep him
in the cotte. . . . There is an universal tremor of the muscles.
His pulse 80. . . .
" 19th. He is still comatose ; hes with his eyes open, but now
and then he is seized with convulsions, which gradually ter-
minate in tremors. . . . Pulse 100. . . . We are in 28 miles
N. lat. and still becalmed."
" 20th. Mr. Palk died about 4 o'clock p.m.
[Holograph, unsigned. lOj pp., Uo.]
336
[No. 343.J
Henry Preston<i> to Sm Robert Palk, Bart.'^', Bruton
Street, London.
1783, August 8th, Fort St. George. — " As you have always
been so sincere a friend to me, I presume to inform you of my
safe arrival here after a very prosperous voyage of four months
and ten days. We sailed from England on the 11th of March,
and touched at St. Jago about 3 weeks after. This was the
only place we touched at : we staid there but three days. We
met with nothing remarkable till we came in sight of the Coast,
July 19th, and we came to an anchor on the 22nd.
" I was greatly surprised to hear of Hyder Alley's death, '^^
and also of Sir Eyre Coote's, who died on his passage to Bengal
by sea.'*' Hyder's son Tipo Seib carries on the war at present.
He is not above 40 miles from hence with all his horse. I hear
that there is a cessation of arms for a month to take place, but
I am not certain.
" There was an engagement the 22 of June between Sir
Edward Hughes and Suffrein off Trincoumale. I am not
acquainted >vith the particulars, but I think we had 500 men
killed, and the fleet came in here in a very shattered condition.
" I began to receive pay as soon as I came ashore. My pay
is 18 pagodas per month ... I have not had an opportunity
to go to Bengal as yet, but I think I shall go in a few days . . ."
" Henry Preston."
" P.S. — I return you my most grateful acknowledgements
for the genteel station your goodness has placed me in."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4to. Wax seal, defaced].
[No. 344.]
Dr. Adam Burt to Messrs. James & David Webster,
Leadenhall Street.
1783, September 10th, Limerick, Ireland, — " I was ordered
by the Governor and Council of Bengal to attend as surgeon
to Robert Palk, Esq., during his voyage from thence to Europe.
Accordingly I embarked along with him on board the Surprise
packet, and we sailed in April. This gentleman had been
attacked with an epilepsy, from which, in the opinion of the
most experienced medical practitioners in Calcutta, he could
not recover in India. I am sincerely sorry to add that his
disease defeated my utmost efforts to preserve him. He died
about a month after we left Bengal.
(1) Henry Preston entered the Bengal Army as a cadet in 1783, and died in 1791
at Dinapore.
(2) Robert Palk was created a baronet on the 10th June, 1782.
(3) Haidar All expired at Chittoor on the 7th December, 1782.
<*) Sir Byre Coote died at Madras on the 27th April, 1783, thr?e days after his
i^rrjval from Bengal, '
337 ■ [No. 344.
" I proposed to have set oft immediately for London, where
I might have communicated the intelhgence in person to some
of Mr. Palk's relations. But I think it is necessary for me to
remain here till I shall hear from them. I will be happy if
Capt. Asquith of the Surprise has given a satisfying account of
matters. I am much afraid, however, that he has not acted
with becoming delicacy as a person to whom devolved the charge
of effects belonging to a gentleman of very extensive concerns.
The captain opened the bureau and escritoire of the deceased,
and took into his possession what papers he thought proper.
I advised him to call some gentlemen to witness and sign an
attestation of the propriety of his proceedings. This he
neglected.
" Major Macgowane'i> came a passenger in this ship. He
will wait on Mr. Palk's relations in England as soon as he can
conveniently after his arrival there. I need not now enlarge
on the many improprieties of Capt. Asquith's conduct with
regard to Mr. Palk. The Major will give them a more particular
account of circumstances which render my stay here for a little
while adviseable. I write this in a hurry just as the ship is
coming to an anchor, lest Mr. Palk's relations should take any
measures in consequence of the captain's letters without making
farther enquiry.
" The friends of Mr. Palk may command my services towards
procuring all the papers of the deceased, if possible, and to
forward the other effects as they shall direct. If, however, it is
deemed necessary for me to interfere, a method must be adopted
with which the captain cannot elude a ready and implicit
compliance.
" Mr. Palk had a Bengal and a European servant on board.
The former was promised a passage out again to India. The
latter has not yet received any wages. They both wait here, and
will proceed agreeable to directions.- Meantime I supply them
with what money is necessary for their subsistence.
" My stay in England cannot be long. I wish to wait on
Mr. Palk's relations, and on many accounts am anxious to get
to London. I hope there will be as little delay as possible, at
least after the arrival of Major Macgowane.
" Now, Gentlemen, as the captain conceals every information
he has derived from the perusal of Mr. Palk's papers, I do not
even know the address of any of his relations. Permit me to
request of you to communicate the above as expeditiously as
possible. . . ."
" Adam Burt."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4io.J
'D Major John McGowan, Vide No, 350, p. 3i3, note I.
338
[No. 345.]
Dr. Adam Burt to Major J. McGowan.
" Memorandum for Major Macgowane from his very obedient
servant Adam Burt."
N.D. [1783, circa September 10th.]—" As you mean to wait
on Mr. Palk's relations in England, ... I trust that you
will communicate to them the various improprieties of Capt.
Asquith's behaviour. Without doubt his claims on my account
will not escape attention. You are no stranger to the unjusti-
fiable manner by which Mr. Palk was compelled to promise to
Capt. Asquith the payment of 1,500 rupees for my passage
after our embarkation and notwithstanding the sum which
Mr. Palk had already given. Besides, the table for Capt.
Asquith and his officers has been kept during the voyage entirely
at the expence of Mr. Palk, excepting the stores which you
brought on board. If Mr. Palk's relations do not dispute the
payment of the above 1,500 rupees, they will certainly treat
the captain with very undeserved generosity. I shall not be
surprised if Capt. Asquith retains in his possession the money he
found in Mr. Palk's escritoire, thinking in that way to be sure
of payment. If Mr. Palk's relations shall view this claim of
the captain in the light in which it appears to me as an
unprejudiced person, I will in that case make Capt. Asquith my
debtor for attendance on the sick of the ship's company during
the passage to Europe, and request of Mr. Palk's friends to
delay payment of Capt. Asquith till my bill shall be discharged.
" You was present when the captain solicited me to attend
the sick people on board. When I complied it was by no means
from any pecuniary motives. Afterwards, however, I could
understand from Mr. Palk's conversation that he meant to
advise me to some measures simitar to the above.
" But if Mr. Palk's relations, after your explanation of the
affair, shall on the contrary be of opinion that it is not worth
while to elude the payment of 1,500 to Capt. Asquith in addition
to the 10,000 which Mr. Palk already paid, then my claim may
be laid aside, for I only desire by that means to compel the
captain to what Mr. Palk's relations may deem equitable." ,
[Holograph, 2\ pp., ito. Endorsed in Sir R. Palk's hand]
" Mr. Burt's letter by Major McGowan, and inventory
of Mr. Palk's stores."
[Enclosure.]
" After the death of Mr. Robert Palk on board the Surprise
Capt. Asquith opened the bureau and escritoire of the deceased.
I observed that the following articles were contained therein,
and I instantly made a memorandum of it :— Gold mohurs, 72 ;
rupees, 398; guineas, 11; Enghsh silver coin, 13 shilhngs ;
small gold pieces, 8 ; four bags supposed to contain gold chequins,
and marked A, B, C, D ; a small box supposed to contain gold,
addressed to Messrs, John Grant and Thomas Hinchmw in
339
[No. 345.
Berners Street, London ; 3 gold watches, chains and a variety
of seals ; 1 silver watch ; 1 pair gold sleeve buttons ; a gold
stockbuckle ; a diamond breastbuckle ; a silver stock-buckle ;
a variety of pocket books and papers contained in them : a
Persian seal ring set in silver ; 2 pairs silver shoe-buckles ;
2 sapphire rings ; one brilliant diamond ring ; 1 hoop ring ;
several miniature pictures ; Voltaire's works in English,
volumes 39.
" List of Mr. Palk's Stores transcribed from the original in
possession of his European servant.'^
Nos.
Nos.
I & 2 Chests of Rice, 12 Maunds.
3 Chest of Waters.
4 Lime and Mango Shrub, 4 doz.
of each.
5 Waters.
6 Cherutes, 32,000.
7 ,, in Bagfuls.
8 & 9 Pour pipes of Rum.
10 Contains 2 doz. Brandy, 2 doz.
Rum, 15 Bottles of Lime
Juice, and 6 bottles of
Barley.
II to 20 Potatoes.
21 to 24 Yams.
25 Contains 6 Hams and 5
Tongues.
26 to 29 Sugar Candy.
30 Europe Pickles.
31 Sago.
32 to 40 Biscuits.
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49 &50
51
52
53
54
65 &56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
Contains 1 Saddle, 2 Bridles,
2 Pistols, some Powder and
Shot.
10 doz. Madeira, 20 bottles of
Hock, and 3 of white
Brandy.
4 doz. and 10 bottles of Cyder,
21 bottles of Bum, and 22
of Mango Shrub.
12 doz. of Claret.
Chest of Waters.
Contains 12 doz. of Porter.
2 doz. of Vinegar, 2 doz. of
Lime Juice, 1 doz. of Sweet
Oil and 6 bottles of Mustard.
Box of Limes.
Mango Pickles, 1800.
Onions.
Raisins.
Sweetmeats and Limes.
Bamboo Pickles.
Onions.
Ginger and Garlick.
Preserved Tamarinds.
20 Bottles of Butter.
Biscuit.
10 bottles of Tamarind Syrup,
10 do. of Honey.
Butter, 16 jars.
Portable Soup and Sweetmeats.
64 & 65 Gingerbread Nuts.
[Holograph, 3 pp., Uo.]
94
95
97 &98
99
100
101
66 Jar of Dates.
67 Box of Curry Stuffs.
68 Europe Sweetmeats.
69 Sugar, 20 seer.
70 to 75 Rice.
76 to 89 Paddy for the Fowls.
90 to 92 Saltpetre.
93 Contains 2 case bottles of Gin,
1 silver Teapot ... 1 silver
Sauce pan, 1 smaller do., a
silver Coffee-pot, 5 bottles
of Coffee, one silver Plate,
a silver Bowl, 6 parcels of
Tobacco, Spoons, Knives,
Porks, Plates, Cups, Wine
glasses, etc.
Ghee, 15 seer.
Wax Candles, also 1000 Eggs.
Cotte and Bedding.
Salt and Tamarinds.
Wax Candles, Cloves, Cinna-
mon, Nutmeg, small Box
of Essences.
Walnuts.
Chest of Silver Plate, 30
different articles, and 2 doz.
of Knives and Porks.
Shaving Box, Washing Bason
and Bottle.
Walnuts.
Chalk.
105 to 108 Sugar Candy.
109 Bag of Coffee.
110 Linen ; also some pieces of
India Cloth.
Ill to 113 Linen.
114 Cloathes, Linen.
115 Linen.
116 Settee.
117 Box of various necessaries.
118 Tea and Coffee.
119 Linen and Cloaths.
120 Box of Hats, and a Firelock.
121 Coats and Linen.
122 Books.
— 1 Bureau, 2 Chairs, a Table,
an Escritoire, 2 Glass Lamps,
a filtering Stone.
Live Stock. 12 Turkeys, 26 Geese, 30
Ducks, 220 Fowls, 30 Sheep, 8
Goats, 6 Kids, 10 Hogs, 5 Deer.
true copy. Adam Buet,"
102
103
104
340
[No. 346.]
D[avid] Asquith to [Sir] Robert Palk, Bruton Street, London.
1783, September 12th, Surprise packet. Limerick. Received
14th October.—" I am sorry to inform you of the death of Mr.
Robert Palk, who departed this hfe May 21st on his passage to
Europe. Mr. John Nimmo, who goes up with the packet, will
inform you of the particulars. He has left sundry articles on
board, consisting of plate, some money in Venetians,"' and
wearing apparel. He has two servants. I shall be glad of
your instructions for sending those things round to you, or m
what manner you chuse to have them disposed off. Mr. Burt
was ordered to attend him home as doctor, for whose passage
Mr. Palk agreed to pay 1,500 Rs. He has mentioned it in a
small diary he kept while alive, and he likewise mentioned it to
the doctor and Major McGowan."
" D. Asquith."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo. Wax seal, defaced.]
[No. 347.]
Dr. Adam Burt to [Sir] Robert Palk.
1783, September 16th, Limerick. Received 3rd October.—
" Immediately after my arrival at this place I wrote to Messrs.
Websters, enclosing a letter which I hope they will forward
without delay. As I did not then know your address, I was
obliged to take that method of communicating to his friends
the death of Robert Palk, Esq., on board the Surprise packet
bound from Bengal to Europe. He had been attacked with
an epilepsy, and on that account quitted India. I was ordered
by the Governor and Council of Bengal to attend a[s] surgeon
to that gentleman during his voyage to Europe. You may
readily conceive how much the fatal termination of his disease
is to me a subject of regret.
" In the letter to which I allude I also mentioned that the
captain of the ship had conducted himself with great impro-
priety, in my opinion, with regard to the effects of the deceased,
and that I was determined to stay here till T should hear from
the relations, and endeavour to procure for them a satisfying
account of matters. I am happy to say that I believe the
property of Mr. Palk on board the Surprise is now in security.
The captain is now sensible of what a serious nature the irregu-
larities of his conduct were, and he has adopted measures with
which I readily coincided because I thought they tended to the
preservation of Mr. Palk's effects. Everything which belonged
to that gentleman remaining on board the Surprise packet was
locked up and sealed in presence of Captain Asquith, two officers
of the ship, Mr. Louch, agent for Colonel Watson in Bengal,
the owner of the ship, the late Mr. Palk's servants, and myself.
The money, the diamond rings and pearls, also all the kees are
(1) Seciums,
341 [No. 347.
deposited with Mr. Lyons, agent for the India Company in this
place.
" I am'sorry that I referred for a just account of the business
to Major Macgowane, who came a passenger in the Surprise.
He said that he had bussiness with Mr. Palk's relations, and at
any rate intended to wait on them. The Major had a dispute
with the captain at sea, but they both behaved with civility
to each other afterwards. I relied so far on the Major as to
believe that in a matter of such importance' to me he would
represent things impartially. But I am surprised to find that
before he left this place he gave an exaggerated account of the
inaproprieties of Captain Asquith's behaviour to the agent for
the Company. The bad conduct of the captain does not require
to be magnified. ... It is therefore necessary for me to
say that my memorandums with which I have entrusted Major
Macgowane are to be relied on as conveying my sentiments . . .
" When Captain Asquith opened the bureau and escritoire
of the deceased, it was in the presence of Major Macgowane and
myself, and the watches, rings and other trinkets I saw sealed
up. But the captain appeared to me to be most culpable in
not taking an inventory of the papers which he took into his
possession, though I advised him to it. That neglect first
awakened in me suspicions of the captain's intentions, and the
imputing it to an impertinent curiosity in him to peruse private
papers is perhaps the best construction which it will bear.
Several expressions which the captain used encreased my doubts
as to his honesty. ...
" Mr. Palk's servants are now gone on board to keep an eye
over every thing which belonged to their late master. But as
they entertained the same ideas as to the captain's intentions
that I did, they would not remain in the ship till affairs were
more regularly gone about, lest they should be deemed answer-
able for any thing which might afterwards be missed.
" I will willingly proceed agreeable to directions, and will
forward or carry along with me every thing belonging to Mr.
Palk with the greatest care in case I shall be so authorized ..."
" Adam Burt."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4fo,]
[No. 348.]
Dr. Adam Burt to [Sir Robert Palk].
1783, October 3rd, Limerick. — I have just received your letter
of the 22nd September in reply to mine of the 10th, but I shall
remain here until I get your answer to mine of the 16th. I have
no wish to injure Captain Asquith, but there are circumstances
which render me suspicious of him.
" Captain Asquith commanded a small vessell some time ago
in India. She was bound from Bengal to Madrass with a cargo
of rice, and insured for the voyage at the risque of a society
No. 348.] 342
in which Mr. Palk was principally concerned. The captain
thought proper to call at Trincomallee with a view, as was said,
to get a good price for some commodity of his own. The ship
was taken from that circumstance, and the owners lost their
property, who certainly had great reason to blame Captain
Asquith. This account I had from Mr. Palk himself. I could
clearly understand from the captain's conversation that he had
perused Mr. Palk's papers about that bussiness, and he hinted
that the claim upon the underwriters would probably be
renewed. Since we arrived here I accompanied the captain to
see all Mr. Palk's effects on board sealed up. ... I then
insisted that the papers, which the captain brought from his
own trunk, should be put up by themselves, and that he should
mark them accordingly, with which he complied.
" The captain talked of exposing letters for Sir Thomas
Rumbold directed to be delivered by Mr. Palk into the hands of
Sir T. or his uncle. He threatened to flfog Mr. Palk's servant
to obhge him to give up a list of Mr. Palk's stores," though a
copy would have served every purpose. " I hope soon to
elucidate more fully the cause of my proceedings . . . when
I shall have the honour of a personal interview with you."
" Adam Burt."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4to.]
[No, 349.]
Dr. Adam Burt to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1783, October 6th, Limerick. — I shall remain here for a few
days longer in the hope of receiving definite instructions from
you respecting the effects of your nephew. I fear you have
found it difficult to form a just opinion from the captain's com-
munications, the reports of Major McGowan and the 1st mate,
and my own letters. " I was afraid that the Major was influenced
too much by prejudice against the captain, and might perhaps
advise you to measures which . . . would in the end turn
out abortive. I understood that before the Major left this
place he shewed the memorandums with which I had entrusted
him ... to different gentlemen here, and endeavoured by
them to corroborate his own accounts, which were that the
captain had certainly embezzled the property of the late Mr.
Palk. I readily submit to your decision when you shall have
arrived at a thorough knowledge of this bussiness, whether or
not the cautions were proper which I gave against the prejudice
that influenced the Major."
As regards the captain's claim for 150/. for my passage, I
suggest your delaying decision until you have examined your
nephew's papers. . . .
rrr , , , -. " AdAM BuRT."
[Holograph, 3J pp., 4to.]
843
[No. 350.]
Major J. McGowan'i' to [Sir Robert Palk].
1783, October 10th, London. — " I had the honor to receive
your letter of the 6th instant. . . . I was present at the opening
of Mr. Palk's papers to look for a will, but none, I believe,
was found by the captain of the ship. From a knowledge that
I had of your nephew's method and attention to his affairs, and
that he knew the dangerous tendency of his complaint, I must
own I felt greatly disappointed in my expectations in not finding
either a will or memorandum which could give the desired infor-
mation. When you arrive in town I will do myself the honor
to wait on you."
" J. MCGOWAN."
[Holograph, 1^ p., 4<o.]
[No. 351.]
Dr. Adam Burt to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1783, October 14th, Limerick. — " Last night I was favoured
with your letter of the 4th October. . . . Captain Asquith
at first made objections to delivering any thing over to my
charge . . . principally because you sent no order directly
to him. Captain Hall, who resides in this town, acquaints me
that he is desired by you to assist me . . . By his advice
Captain Asquith consents to deliver to me the money and
papers.
" Mr. Louch, agent for the ship, positively refuses to allow
any of the effects of the late Mr. Palk to be carried round to
England in the Surprise, Limerick being the destined port.
I shall therefore provide boats, and . . . will superintend
the landing of Mr. Palk's effects. They must be deposited in the
Custom House here till some person authorized by you shall
demand and forward them in a vessel bound for London.
Probably there may be some things which are seizable. I am
informed that you can procure an order for the Collector here to
deliver the effects to be forwarded to the India House. . . .
Captain Hall promises his services.
" I really do not know whether or not Mr. Palk left any will.
On the 14th May he was seized with violent convulsions, and
continued totally insensible . . . till the 20th. Consequently
he gave no directions. ... It was thought that the papers were
not safe in any part of the ship : they were accordingly landed,
and have remained sealed up in the Custom House. ... I
propose to set off for London two days after this."
" Adam^Burt."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4to.]
(1) John McGowan entered the Bengal infantry as lieutenant in 1767. On
becoming major in 1781 he accompanied Colonel Pearse's force in its march irom
Midnapur to Madras. Ho was promoted lieut. -colonel in 1788.
344
[No. 352.]
Sober Hali/ to [Sir Robert Palk].
1783, October 14th, Limerick. — " I was favoured last night
with your letter of the 4th of this month, and have advised
Mr. Burt to get what things are with the captain at Mr. Lyons's,
and proceed with them to you, as I hear they are mostly the
papers of your deceased nephew, and may be of much con-
sequence. I find that Mr. Louch, the agent for Colonel Watson,
who[m] the ship belongs to, has ordered all the chests, trunks,
etc., that are now on board to be sent up to the Custome House
here, refusing to let them go round in the ship. ... I will do
all I can to forward them to London by the first convenience
after I shall receive your orders. Mr. Burt goes down tomorrow
morning to bring them up. Should there be any muslines, etc.,
which might be me[a]nt by my late worthy friend as presents
to his relations, I perhaps may be able to get them out here
without much difficulty, or you might get an order from the
Tre[a]sury to the Commissioner of the Customes to let them be
reship[p]ed here without their being opened. . . ."
" Sober Hall."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4io.]
[No. 353.]
James Lyons to [Sir Robert Palk].
1783, October 15th, Limerick. — " It having been represented
to me by Major McGouan and Mr. Burt that part of the effects
of the late Mr. Palk on board was in cash, I gave it as my opinion
to have it brought on shore and deposited in the Custom House
or in some safe hands, ... as I could not answer for its
safety on board, where the vessell lay 20 miles down our river.
Accordingly the purser of the ship, Mr. Louch, the captain and
Mr. Burt brought it up, and in Mr. Burt's presence were sealed
up ; and agreable to your letter they shall be handed to Mr.
Burt. . . ."
" James Lyons."
[Autograph, 1^ pp., 4io.]
[No. 354.]
Certificate by Dr. Adam Burt.
1783, October 16th, Limerick.— At my request Mr. William
Douglas, merchant, of Limerick, attended yesterday on board
the Surprise as a witness to my protest to Captain Asquith and
Mr. Louch against landing the effects of Mr. Palk. After I had
protested a boat was brought alongside and loaded with the
goods by the seamen.
" Adam Burt."
Attested by " William Douglas."
[1 p., flscp.]
345
[No. 355.]
Certificate by Dr. Adam Bubt.
1783, October 17th, Limerick. — Mr. Louch, agent for Colonel
Watson, having refused to carry the effects of the late Mr. Palk
to London or any part of England, and having insisted on send-
ing them ashore here, I certify that I protested against their
being landed.
^ " Adam Burt."
Certified to.be a true statement.
" Sober Hall."
[^p.Jlscp.]
[No. 356.]
D[avid] Asquith to [Sir Robert Palk].
1783, October 17th, Limerick. — I am surprised to learn from
Mr. Burt that you have received no letter from me. I wrote
by Mr. John Nimmo, my chief mate, who carried the Company's
dispatches and a bundle of letters addressed to the care of the
late Mr. Palk. I instructed Mr. Nimmo to call on you in Bruton
Street and give you a detailed account of the effects of Mr. Palk.
" Why he has not waited on you or delivered my letter remains
a mystery to me. If you please to send to the Swan with Two
Neck[s] in Lad Lane,<i' where I find Mr. Nimmo is to be heard of,
possibly the above letters may be recovered. Some of them, I
believe, contained bills of exchange belonging to the particular
friends of Mr. Palk.
" Your not receiving any advices from me must no doubt
appear very strange to you. I have only to request you will be
kind enough to suspend forming any unfavourable opinion of
me till I have the honour of seeing you. ... I have received
orders to bring the ship round to London, and now only wait for
a favourable wind to proceed. . . ."
" D. Asquith."
[Holograph, IJ p., 4to.]
[No. 357.]
Dr. Adam Burt to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1783, October 31st, London. — " This day I have deposited
the effects of your nephew, which I brought from Limerick, in
your house in Bruton Street, where I had the honour to receive
yours of the 27th instant. You only desired me to bring the
articles which Avere deposited with Mr. Lyons, but Captain Hall
concurring with me in opinion that it would give you satis-
faction to get the papers as soon as possible, I have also brought
all of them that were placed in the Custom House on the 16th
ultimo.
" I do not wonder that you are surprized at Mr. Louch's
behaviour. He and Mr. Lyons, agent for the Company, are
(1) Now Gresham Street, E.G.
No. 357.] 346
joined agents for Colonel Watson in Bengal, the proprietor of
the vessel. . . .
" I saw 32 packages delivered over to Mr. Sexton Bayllee,
Surveyor of the Port of Limerick, among which are a large box
for Francis Roberts,'^' at Dr. Lawrence's, Essex Street, Strand,
and a small box for Mrs. Elizabeth Ironside, at Twickenham',
Middlesex, both by favour of Mr. Palk. The effects were
delivered to the Surveyor with the seals entire which had been
put on on the 16th ultimo. I was not a little astonished to find
almost all the seals broken ... the next day after they were
landed. ... In presence of Mr. Louch and Captain Hall I
requested permission again to seal up all the packages, which
the Surveyor refused me. He said it was dark when the
effects were landed, and the seals might have been broken off
by ,the porters ; but he insisted on immediately inspecting all
the packages, and that he himself would open them if no other
person would be present to superintend it. I told him that I was
not answerable for the consequences of landing the effects, yet
I would do all in my power towards their preservation, and had
witnessed their being delivered over to him to be deposited in
the King's stores merely as a place of security. That I would
immediately make an affidavit concerning his proceedings,
which, if you pleased, might be laid before the Commissioners.
This surely alarmed him, for next day he requested of me to seal
up all the packages, to which I consented, at the same time
observing that sealing them up at that time would not supersede
my affidavit, which I made accordingly.
" Before I left Limerick the Surveyor had set off for Dublin.
He gave out that he would lay before the Commissioners infor-
mation concerning the contents of Mr. Palk's packages," based
on statements of Mr. Louch. I represented to the Collector of
Limerick that Mr. Louch could not know anything about the
contents.
" I had so much luggage that I could not possibly bring any
of Mr. Palk's servants along with me. Mr. Louch and Captain
Asquith had no objection to carry them round in the ship. The
European will probably take another mode of conveyance.
The Indian proposed officiating as servant to the 2nd mate till
their arrival in London, which I encouraged, as I thought it
would ensure him protection." " Adam Burt."
" P.S. — I am to be heard of at Messrs. Websters."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.]
[No. 358.]
Henry' McMahon to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street,
London.
1783, November 2nd, Limerick. — I have been engaged by
Dr. Burt to look after the effects of Mr. Palk. Directly after
(1) Francis Roberts, a relative of Mrs. Letitia Ironside.
347 [No. 358.
Dr. Burt's departure, Mr. Baillie went to Dublin to see the Com-
missioners, and on his return made a seizure of the effects. He
falsely asserts that Dr. Burt offered him 500Z. to give up the
goods. I propose to file a claim tomorrow lest';^the effects
should be forthwith condemned, though I am not able to comply
with all legal requirements ; but I hope you will depute a
person who can make a claim in accordance with the Act, of
which I enclose an abstract. I have already sent a memorial
to the Commissioners praying for a postponement of proceedings
pending investigation.
" The Speaker of our House of Commons (Mr. Pery) is Baillie's
relation and patron, but would by no means countenance him
in an act of injustice. I therefore take the liberty to recommend
to you either to write yourself, or procure some other gentleman
of consequence who may know Mr. Pery, to represent this matter
in its true hght. If this is done, I have little doubt that BailUe
would instantly be checked in his career, which may save much
expence. . . ." " Henry McMahon."
[Holograph, 2^ pp., Uo. Wax seal.]
Enclosure. Extract from Statute 19 and 20 Geo. Ill, cap. 12,
sees. 1 and 2.
[1 p., 4to.]
[No. 359.]
Sober Hall to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street, London.
1783, November 3rd, Limerick. — " Finding the goods at the
Custome House that were sent from the Surprise are to be con-
demned and sold as a legal seizure, I have directed Mr. Henry
McMahon, Attorney at Law, to siend a petition and a copy of the
affadavit sworn to by Mr. Burt to the Commissioners of the
Customs at Dublin, in hopes . . . they will give further time, so
that you may have an oppertunity to make such application
and send over such instructions as you think proper. . . . "
" Sober Hall."
[Autograph, 1 p., 4>to.]
[No. 360.]
William Douglas to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P., Bruton
'Street, London.
1783, November 3rd, Limerick. — Encloses a letter for Dr.
Burt, which, in case of the doctor's absence, is to be opened by
Sir R. Palk.
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo. Wax seal.]
[No. 361.]
Henry McMahon to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street,
London.
1783, November 4th, Limerick. — " I yesterday got at the
Custom House a copy of the seizing note lodged for the goods
in the»stpres, and found it dated the 15th of October, being about
No. 361.] 348
the day the goods wer6 landed, though I am convinced it was
not filed until yesterday morning ; but it was intended so as
that the time for claiming may expire before you could possibly
have an opportunity of putting in a claim according to the Act,
of which I sent you an abstract.
" I instantly tendered a claim such as the nature of the case
would admit of. It was peremptorily refused, . . . not being
according to law. I immediately prepared and sent off by Post
Office express a memorial to the Commissioners. ... I refer
you for further particulars to . . . copies of the seizing note,
memorial and claim herewith sent."
" Henry McMahon."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo. Wax seal.]
[Enclosures.]
No. 1. — Copy of seizing note, dated Port Limerick, 15th
October, 1783. Signed by S. Baylie, Surveyor, and
addressed to George Maunsell, Esq., Collector.
No. 2. — Copy of claim by Henry McMahon as agent for the
owner, Sir Robert Palk, dated Port of Limerick, 3rd
November, 1783.
No. 3. — Copy of further memorial by Henry McMahon to the
Chief Commissioners of Revenue, praying that the claim
may be admitted.
[1| p., flscp.]
[No. 362.]
William Douglas to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street,
London.
1783, November 7th, Limerick. — Encloses a letter for Dr.
Burt, which, in case of the doctor's absence, is to be opened by
Sir R. Palk.
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo. Wax seal.]
[No, 363.]
Sober Hall to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street,
London.
1783, November 8th, Limerick. — I write for Mr. McMahon to
say that the Commissioners have granted time for the submission
of a proper claim. You might send Dr. Burt over to make the
claim. " Thus far is Mr. Bailie disappointed, who flattered
himself with the notion of accelerating matters so as to have
the goods condemned and sold before there would be either a
claim or tryal. . . ."
" Sober Hall."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo.]
349
[No. 364.]
William Young to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P., Bruton
Street, London.
1783, November 9th, Limerick. — "Honoured Sir, I am given
to understand your honour is heir to my late master, Robert
Palk, Esq. I think it my duty to acquaint you with the
particulars which were taken of his stores after his discease.
I would have acquainted your honour sooner, but Capt. Asqueth
has not sailed for London till last Thursday. ... I have a
particular account of the contents of each of my late master's
trunks and effects of every kind, as they were all committed
to my charge since they left India till landed and lodged in this
Custom House. ... I request your honour will be pleased
to send me directions whether I am to remain with the effects
till they proceed to London, or how I am to conduct nayself.
At present I am at the house of Mr. William Douglas of this
town. . . ."
" William Young."
[Autograph, If p.. Mo. Wax seal.}
[Enclosures.]
No. 1.— Copy of " List of Mr. Palk's stores."
[2 pp., 4to.]
No. 2. — " A list of stores belonging to my late master, Robert
Palk, Esq., expended after his discease bv order of Capt.
Asqueth.(i> . . ." " William Young."
[Autograph, 1 p., flscp.]
[No. 365.]
William Douglas to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street,
London.
1783, November 11th, Limerick. — " Inclosed you have a
copy of the Board's letter to the Collector. Never the less Mr.
Baylie, Port Surveyor, entered the stores yesterday in company
Avith Mr. James Lyons, merchant in this town, broke open every
chest and package belonging to Mr. Palk, rummaged and tossed
the whole of his effects.
" William Young, Mr. Palk's servant, is the bearer of this . . ."
" William Douglas."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[Enclosure.]
Copy of letter from the Board of Customs to George Maunsell,
Esq., Collector of Customs, Limerick, dated Dublin, 6th Novem-
ber, 1783. " The Board direct that the tryal be delayed and a
proper time given for making a legal claim."
[1 p., Uo.]
'D Among the articles expended were — 4 doz. brandy, 7^ doz. madeira, 6i doz.
waters, 7 doz. slirub, 8 doz. porter, 1 6C-gal. cask of rum broached, 6 tubs sugar
candy, 1 bag cheroots, 2 bags walnuts, 15 sheep, 6 goats, 1 kids, 3 hogSj 3 turkeys,
24 geese, and 72 fowjs,
350
[No. 366.]
]783, November 15th, London. — Deposition of Adam Burt
sworn before William Peckham, Lord Mayor, setting forth
the circumstances of the landing of Mr. Palk's effects, and their
deUvery irtto the charge of Mr. Sexton Baylie.
[li p. ,flscp.]
[No. 367.]
Dr. Adam Burt to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1783, November 30th, London. — " I have reason for believing
that Captain David Asquith, of the Surprise packet, intends to
claim 1,500 rupees on account of my passage, and in addition
to the sum which Mr. Palk advanced to him in Bengal. There
was not any surgeon belonging to the vessel. At the intreaty
of the captain I attended the sick of the ship during the passage.
Surely it must be granted that in a ship of so considerable force
the assistance of a surgeon in time of war is an adequate recom-
pence for the room he occupies on board. I used no other
provisions during the voyage but what had been provided at
the particular expence of Mr. Palk. I hope therefore that you
will not attend to the above demand of the captain till he shall
have consented sufficiently to reward me."
" Adam Burt."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4to.]
[No. 868.]
William Young to [Sir Robert Palk].
1783, December 16th, Limerick. — I have the pleasure to
inform your honour that the goods are delivered up, and are
ready for conveyance to Dublin and thence to the India House.
The only cause of delay is Mr. Baylie's bill of expenses, which
Captain Hall declines to pay until Mr. McMahon can learn from
the Commissioners what amount is just.
" William Young."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[No. 369.]
Sober Hall to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, January 14th, Limerick. — " At last we have been able
to get all the chests, etc., out of the Custome House here, and
they went off for Dublin under the care of your late nephew's
servant (who has behaved with great propriety and attention)
and a Custome House officer for Dublin. ... I enclose you
a list of the plate and the other articles [of] that seazable nature
for your satisfaction and guide when they arrive at the India
House. . . ."
" Sober Haj-j:-,"
[Holograph, Ip., Mo.]
851
[No. 370.]
Geo[rge] Maunsell to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, January 15th, Limerick. — I received orders from the
Revenue Commissioners to forward your nephew's goods to
Dublin as soon as Mr. Bayhe's account was paid. The account
was settled for 40L by your friend Captain Hall and your attor-
ney, for which I accepted a bill drawn by William Young on
Mr. T. Maunsell,'!' as instructed by you. Mr. Hall and I
decided that some of the sea stores, which were not worth the
cost of carriage, should be sold. They realized over 371. The
remaining articles are now on their way to Dublin, and I have
asked Mr. Maunsell to forward them thence to London without
delay.
[Holograph, If p., Uo.]
Geo. Maunsell."
[No. 371.]
D[avid] Asquith to Sir Robert Palk, Bruton Street,
London.
1784, January 21st, Ship Surprise, Downs. — I am surprised
to learn from your letter of the 17th January that the things
have not been delivered. I have written to Mr. Louch on the
subject. The delay is by no fault of mine.
" D. Asquith."
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo. Wax seal with arms.]
[No. 372.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, February 2nd, Fort St. George.—" This will be dehvered
to you by Captain Tod with my little boy Tom. The enclosed
paper contains a list of the clothes I have sent with him, meant
more as a check upon the servant than any thing else, who is a
man that never was employed upon such an occasion before.
. . . For Tom's passage I have paid 500 pags., which is
more than hath of late been paid for such children, so that I
hope the captain will make no farther demand on his account."
"Tho. Palk."
" P.S. — The garrison of Palagaut-Cherry, a fort taken during
the cessation of hostihties (and after the Embassy*^' had set
put) by Colonel FuUarton,*^' was, in its return to join him,
'1' Thomas Maunsell was in 1757 one of the Agents for the Army in Bengal.
(2) The Commissioners deputed to Mangalore to negotiate with Tipu. Vide
No. 378, p. 355, note 1.
(3) Lieut. -Colonel William FuUarlon, commanding H.M. U8th Regt., defended
Negapatam against the French in 17S2. On promotion to Colonel in the following
year he superseded Ross Lang in command of the Southern army, and prosecuted
vigorous and successful operations against Tipu and the Poligars of Dindigul and
Madura. He took Palghatcherri in November, 1783, and was preparing to march
against Seringapatam when he received orders to suspend hostilities pending nego-
tiations with Tipu. His victorious campaign ]ed to tbe Peace treaty of Mangalore
pftlie 11th March, 1784,
No. 372.] 352
having ceded the fort to Tippoo, attacked and sustained a very
heavy loss by one of his tributary Pohgars. This and other
causes of a similar nature will delay the so much desired peace."
[Holograph, lp.,flscp.]
[No. 373.]
Henry Preston to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street,
London.
1784, February 2nd, Camp at Trivetore. — " I was prevented
by sickness from going to Bengal till the monsoons set in, when
I could not possibly get a passage ; which induced me to make
application to join a Bengal detachment which was then under
orders to march round to Bengal. I was fortunate enough to
obtain permission from Colonel Pearce,<i' who had the command
of the detachment, to join, and I now enjoy 340 rupees per month.
It is to your goodness. Sir, I owe this preferment ; and permit
me to return you my most grateful acknowledgments for the
many obligations I lie under to you."
Please forward the enclosed to my brother Fitzgerald in
Dublin.
" Henry Preston."
[Holograph, 2 pp., Uo.]
[No. 374.]
David Asquith to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, February 4th, Ship Surprise, Falmouth. — The quilts
which Mr. Louch sent you were the only things belonging to
Mr. Palk which remained on board.
" David Asquith."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[No. 375.]
Tho[ma]s Maunsell<2' to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, February 5th, Dublin. — " I had the pleasure to receive
your letter of the 22nd in the country, where I have been detained
by illness and the severity of the season. I came to town a few
days ago, and immediately came to the Custom House about
your nephew's effects. In my absence I had a particular friend,
Robert Alexander,*^' to attend to this business. We have done
all in our power to get the effects lodged with me, and I am
really much disappointed it cannot succeed. Mr. Winder'*'
wrote to you upon the stores being lodged at the Custom House,
(1) Thomas Deane Pearse entered the Bengal Artillery as Major in 1768, and
became Lieut.-Colonel in the following year. In 1781 he commanded a force which
was sent from Bengal to aid Eyre Coote against Haidar All. Alter a march, of six
months Colonel Pearse joined Coote shortly after the battle of Porto Novo. He
commanded a brigade at the battles of Polilur and Sholinghur, and did good service
until his return in 1784 to Bengal, where he died in 1787.
- (2) Vide No. 370, p. 351, note I.
(3) Elder brother of James Alexander. Vide No. 65, p. 92, note 6.
(4) Thopnas Winder, Secretary to the Commissioners of Customs,
353 [No. 375.
and unless you can prevail in England to have them deli^c-red
to me, I shall apply to have them shipped by the first vessell to
London.
" I was anxious to see William Young, and could not find him
out till last Tuesday. ... I am sorry for the trouble this
poor man met with in his journey from Limerick. He was
taken up on a suspicion of being a highway man, and Mr. Luke
Flood, a magistrate, wrote to me upon the occasion, whose
letter I enclose you. He was immediately discharged, but lost
his pistols by the villainy of the people. It was fortunate for
him that I was in the country about 13 miles from the place
where this affair happened.
" I shall be impatient to hear what you have done by your
application to the Court of Directors and Colonel Barre.'^' and
have only wrote to you now to let you know what has passed
at this side. ..."
" Thos- Maunsell."
[Holograph, 2| pp., 4io.]
[Enclosure.]
Letter from Luke Flood to Thomas Maunsell, dated Corvill,
Roundwood, 17th January, 1784.
" William Young, brought before me this day on suspicion
of being a highway man, and who writes to you by the bearer,
has mentioned a circumstance of having drawn a draft on you
for fourty pound on account of Mr. Palk. I shall be thankful to
you for your information if any such transaction happened,
and your idea of the matter. Young says he was servant to the
deceased Mr. Palk, who was brother to Sir Robert Palk, an
Enghsh member of Parliament, and is now employed by him
in the care of the deceased's property."
" Lu. Flood."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[No. 376.]
Tho[ma]s Maunsell to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, February 14th, Dublin. — " I yesterday received your
letter of the 6th to Alexander and me, and went this morning to
the Commissioners, from whom I have obtained an order that
the effects should be immediately shipped on board the Draper,
Capt. Rendell, for London, consigned to you at the India House.
I took William Young with me to the Custom House, and shall
have him attended to on board ship, as it is certainly better he
should go with the effects. . . .
" I am glad to acquaint you that we shall recover the pistols
which were taken from William Young. . . ."
" Thqs- Maunsell."
[Holograph, \\ p., Mo.]
(1) Colonel Isaac Barr^ (1726 — 1802), a member of Parliament from 1761 and
an active politician, was Paymaster General vinder Lord Sbelburne's (jovernmont.
X
354
[No. 377.]
George Baker to Sir Robert Palke,'i' Bart.
1784, September 10th, Fort St. George.—" I condole with you,
your brother' 2) and family most sincerely on that very affectmg
circumstance the loss of" vour nephew Mr. Robert Palke, late
of Bengali. . . . Your nephew Mr. T. Palke and family are at
Trichinopoly. . . . Captain J. Kennaway is with his detachment,
encamped near Bimblepatam, from whence I have understood
they were to set out on their march to Bengali about the end of
October. . . .
" Sautgur and Amboor were a few days since delivered up
to us by Tippoo, and about the same time he was put in posses-
sion of Dingigul by us, so that things are said to be fully and
amicably adjusted with him, at least for the present. Cuddalore
and Trinconomaly still continue in the possession of the French, '^l'
owing, it is said, to the want of explicit instructions from
Europe. I have understood that Mr. Hastings continues still
up the co[u]ntry, and is not expected down till October. He has
now, or has had, the King's son with him. Money is, as it has
long been, and as it is likely long to continue, very scarce :—
the army and civil servants greatly distressed for want of their
arrears. . . . About the 25th of last month the Surprise packet
layed too for an hour off this road, landed a packet for this
place from Europe, and proceeded directly on to Bengali.
" Sir Edward Hughes, being disappointed in his expectation
of relief, will, it is said, sail early in the next month for the other
coast, where he may perhaps in the beginning of next year
meet it. The distressed state of publick affairs at home keep[s]
this co[u]ntry in sad disorder. Some sistem for the good
government of India is surely much wanted. God send that
that which may be adopted may be perfect in proportion to
the great length of time that has been bestowed on the
investigation of the subject. . . ."
" George Baker."
" P.S. — I have understood that Mr. John Sulivan**) has
obtained leave to come down to the Presidency. It is said
that he has made a large fortune at Tan j ore by being concerned
in providing grain, provision and stores for the troops to the
southward in the late war, and that he means to return to Europe.
In that case there will be a vacancy in the Residency at that
place, which I suppose your nephew Mr. T. Palke would be
glad to fill if it could be procured for him. G.B."
[Holograph, t\ pp.. Mo. Duplicate.]
(1) An old spelling revived. Cf. Devonshire Wills, C. Worthy.
(2) Walter Palk, father of Robert Palk, juu.
(3) Delay was due to the contention by the French that the restitution of Trin-
comalee to the British was to be only formal, pending the immediate transfer of
the port to the Dutch. The Madras Government had no knowledge of such an
agreement, and referred the matter to England in July, 1784.
<*> John Sulivan had been Resident at Tanjore since 1780, when Stephen Sulivan
resigned the post to which he had then ^ust been appointed.
355
[No. 378.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Sir Robert Palk, Baronet.
1784, September 11th, Madrass. — Since I last wrote, Messrs.
Sadleir, Hudleston and Staunton*^) made peace with Tippoo
at Mangalore, and returned in April to Madras.
" Lord Macartney'^) and the Nabob do not agree at all in
any respect, but his Lordship is very honest and do[es] not
receive any present nor allowance from any body ; but he has a
long dispute with [the] Governor General and Council of Bengal
about [the] Nabob's affairs. . . .
" General Bussey is at Pondichery, and their forces is about
one thousand Europeans both at Pondichery and Cuddalore,
and the rest he sent away to Mauritius, and he is in very great
distress to feed those troops now with him. And upon some
disputes between them and our Government on account of
Tricamally'^) the French do not deliver up Cuddalore to us nor
take charge of Pondichery."
No taxes are collected at Pondichery either by the British
Resident or the French. Trade is bad and money scarce.
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 379.]
H.H. the Nawab Walajah to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1784, September 15th, Chepauck. — " You are my old friend
and have been the faithful servant of the Company in an exalted
station in this Government. During your government the
affairs of the Company were conducted with honour, propriety
and advantage ; and you was an eye witness to the friendship
and support which I shewed towards the Company, and the
sincerity, chearfulness and punctuality with which I paid my
current charges with them. But now the misconduct of the
Company's servants is the sole cause of the ruin in which their
affairs and those of the public and their friends are involved.
" Lord Macartney has brought utter riiin upon all the affairs
of his employers, their friends and the public. In return for
the good I have done his Lordship has done every injury to me,
my family and country. Large sums of money from the
revenues of my country have been dissipated and made away
with, and not brought into the Company's treasury to my
credit. In short, my friend, a full detail of Lord Macartney's
evil conduct towards me and the public would fill volumes.
I request therefore to refer you for particulars to Mr. James
(1) A Commission consisting of Antiiony Sadleir, John Hudleston and George
Staunton, the last of whom was the Governor's private secretary, had been sent to
Mangalore to arrange terms with Tipu. A treaty was concluded on the 11th
March, 1784, whereby restitution of prisoners was agreed to. Those released by
Tipu in March and April numbered 1,146 British and about 3,000 native soldiers.
(2) Lord Macartney assumed charge as Governor in June, 1781.
(3) Tm?oma}ee, in Ceylon. Vide J^o. 377, p. 354,
No. 379.] 356
Macpherson,<i' and I flatter myself no exertions on your part
will be wanting to the reestablishment of my government
and country.
" It was during my friend's time that the last peace with
France was concluded, and you know that Mons^' Law, who
came out as Commissary on the part of the French King, though
the villages around Pondichery had been dependant on it from
ancient time, yet he did not think it right or proper to hoist
the French flag in Pondichery, or to receive the said villages
without my concurrence and authority, nor untill he had sent
a Vackeel to me and had an interview himself at Sadrass. In
that business you was pleased to show me every token of honour
and respect, and you gave me every friendly information and
support : we were both one and the same. But now, though
the King of Great Britain has engaged in his late treaty with
France to procure for that nation the cession of two additional
districts'^' of my country, to which the French can claim no
right, and as the acquisition will greatly increase their power
in this country, they consequently should be bound by stronger
restrictions than heretofore with a view to the good of the
Carnatic and of the English possessions in this part ; yet Lord
Macartney, in his implacable enmity towards me and my family,
has endeavoured to deprive me totally of my inherent rights ;
and though I chearfully consented to the cession of the districts
to the French agreeable to the engagements of his Majesty the
King of Great Britain, yet his Lordship denied me the privilege
of giving away my own countries, and determined to surrender
them to the French without my interference and without making
them enter into any Crarnamah.*^' His Lordship accordingly
signified to Mons^ Bussy, through his own private secretary
Mr. Staunton, that he possessed the sovreignty of the Carnatic,
and that all negotiations must be entered into with him. But
Bussy, though an enemy, denied his Lordship's position, as you
will understand from the letter to Lord Macartney on this
subject. I write this for your information.
" My friend will be -pleased to recollect that it was himself
who delivered to me the letter which was addressed me by the
late Earl of Chat[h]am, the father of the present Minister, Mr.
Pitt. You have now a happy opportunity of exerting your
interest with the Minister and your other friends for the
re-estabhshment of my affairs, and I trust that your exertions
will not be wanting.
" May you long enjoy every earthly blessing. What can I
say more ? "
[3 pp., demy. Duplicate.]
(1) James Macpherson took over charge of Walajah's interests in England from
his cousm John when the latter sailed for India to become a member of the
(supreme Council.
territory*' '''"^^^' °* ViUenour and Bahour, which now form part of Pondicherry
(3) Crarnamah, Pers., har&r-nama, a written agreement,
357
[No. 380.]
A[beaham] Welland'i' to Sib Robert Palk, Bart.
1784, September 18th, Calcutta. Received 16th October,
1785. — I am pleased to hear that my cousin Abraham'^' is
coming to India. I shall of course render him all assistance in
my power. " The expences I incurred at Madrass are
undoubtedly very great, but believe me, had I not received
Mr. Thomas Palk's approbation for every article I bought, I
would not have spent half the money I did.
" How very much the times are altered since you was in
India, when a person was satisfied with one or two servants !
I can assure you a Writer in Bengal can not now exist under an
establishment of less than thirty. The goodness of Mr. Hastings
to the black people has lain us under this imposition. ' ' However,
I live as economically as possible.
" Your very dutiful and affectionate nephew, A. Welland."
{Holograph, 6 pp., Mo.]
[No. 381. J
Mrs. C[atharine] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, October 8th, Trichinapoly. Received 23rd October,
1785.'^' — " I have had the pleasure to receive your letter of
the 15th of February, and the satisfaction it affords me is more
than I can express, particularly for your top kind assurance of
taking care of my children in England. . . .
" My Tom is, I hope, by the blessing of the Almighty safe
arrived, of which I am very anxious to hear. We could not
possibly hear of him since he left the Cape, when he was well.
Catharine is my next, who is four years old. I shall embrace
the first good opportunity for sending her to England. My last
is Bob, and as every parent is proud of its own, I cannot help
saying he is a very fine child, and I flatter myself with hopes
that by the time he comes of age to be sent also, that we shall
be able to accompany him ourselves.
" The loss of our valuable brother was somewhat unexpected,
as we flattered ourselves that the voyage would restore him to
health. We feel the loss most sensibly.
" An end being put to a dreadful war enabled me to return
here with Mr. Palk in April last. I hope we shall be allowed
to remain here for the future undisturbed. . . .
" Your most obliged and most affectionate niece, C. Palk."
[Holograph, 2^ pp., 4to.]
(1) Abraham Wellaud, brother of Lieut. Richard Welland, R.N., and son of Sir
Robert Palk's sister Grace Welland.
(2) Thomas Abraham, son of Robert Abraham of Gurrington, near Ashbm'ton,
,waa born in 1769 and died in 1818. He was a cousin of Sir Robert Palk, whose
"mother was Prances Abraham.
(3) The Pigot, which was to have left for England on the 15th Oct. 1784, was
employed locally, and did not sail on the homeward voyage until Feb., 1785.
358
[No. 382.]
Tho[ma]s Palk to Sir Robert Palk.
1784, October 10th, Trichinapoly. Received 23rd October,
1785. — Your acceptance of the care of my boy Tom without
my having first obtained your approbation impresses me with
the deepest sense of gratitude. " Had it pleased the Almighty
to have spared my poor brother, he would no doubt have taken
those charges upon himself. This unhappy event was first inti-
mated to me by a town report, nor did I see any letter confirming
it for many days, so that I was in a painful melancholy suspence
during that period. He appears to have possessed a very
handsome fortune.
" Though the peace took place in March last, it is only within
the last month that a final exchange of places took place,
owing to, I believe, some delay occasioned by the Supreme
Council, who, it seems, do not altogether approve of the Treaty,
as the Nabob has been totally excluded therefrom. To such a
length hsLth private animosity gone forth ! The Supreme Council
have taken up the matter very warmly, and have threatened
our Select Committee with suspension should they not open an
immediate negotiation with Tippoo, and insist upon the Nabob's
being inserted in the Treaty. The Committee have peremptorily
refused doing it, and it is expected that a change in this Govern-
ment will very soon take place. It appears to me to be at present
a very unhappy one, that gives general disapprobation and
disgust. It is a very happy circumstance for the Coast that a
man of Mr. Hastings's experience and abilities guides the helm.
He proves himself a man of inexhaustable resource. The
Directors and Company between them have irritated him a
great deal . . . , but he has too much honor to leave them
in the hour of danger, and hath proven that no ill treatment
whatever can swerve him from the publick good. He set out
on a tour through the provinces in February last; and returned
to Calcutta only in August. You will no doubt, Sir, hear from
better authority than mine the good which hath been derived
from this excursion to the publick.
" Mrs. Palk wishes to have sent her a picture of her son Tom..
Should you think of it. Sir, you will oblige us by getting one
taken . . . ."
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4ito.]
[No. 383.]
George Baker to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1784, October 10th, Fort St. George.—" I know of no publick
news worth your notice except the mutinous disposition of the
Army, which has shewn itself a second time very lately. The
36th Regiment took to their arms, and were with difficulty
359 [No. 383.
prevailed on to lay them down after one of the most active had
been blown from a gun. Their complaint was the want of their
arrears, aggravated perhaps by the knowledge of all Batta but
in a few particular places being to be taken off about the end
of the year. This, it seems, has been resolved on in Committee,
and may perhaps have been published in General Orders. It
may be difficult wholly to suppress the spirrit of dissatisfaction
for a long time, and perhaps equally so to pay up their arrears
in a short one. The different Powers of Hindostan are . . .
at peace, but the rumour of an approaching rupture between
the Nizam and Maratahs as allyes and Tippoo is very prevalent.
Some think that in such a case we shall keep aloof. . . .
" Sir Edward Hughes sailed early this morning with his
squadron for the other coast. A dispute having arisen in our
Select Committee between the Gove[r]nor and Mr. Sadleir (our
friend) about the time of the Juno's departure, the former gave
the latter at the Council Board the lye direct. This terminated
in a duel between them after the Juno sailed.'^' The Governor
was wounded, but not dangerously, in the left side. The
partyes are said to be reconciled — in appearance only I should
suppose.
" I had got thus far in my letter, and was about to tell you
that the Cornwallis arrived here on the 7th instant, when Mr.
Abraham*^' came into my room with your most kind and
acceptable favor of the nineth of March last. I offered him and
indeed pressed him to accept of a room with me dureing his
short stay here, but he being as he said well accommodated
with Captain Abercrombie in the Fort, and being to depart in
a very few days for Bengali, declined the acceptance of it. . . .
It appears that the Cornwallis has been remarkably healthy,
haveing not buryed a man since she left England. My residence
is at St. Thome : Mr. Abraham might perhaps think the situation
inconvenient.
" We are indeed in quiet possession of the Carnatick, but it is
desolated to the extent of any representation that I have seen
of it ; depopulated, uncultivated and deprived of its manu-
factures of course. And, what I conceive to be no inconsiderable
thing, its stock of cattle of every species exhausted by the
destruction or pillage of the late enemy, or the consumption of
the Army, Settlement and Squadron for draught, carryage
and food. A country in such a state surely requires time to
recover itself before it can either furnish the sinews of war, the
means of commerce or a sourse for revenue. Pardon, I pray
you, the obtrusion of these reveries. ..."
" George Baker."
[Holograph, 6 pp., flscp.]
(1) The duel was settled with pistols at ten paces on the 24th September.
Alevnder Davidson acted as Macartney's second, Major John Grattan of H.M.'s
100th Regiment, as Sadleir's.
(2) Thomas Abraham. Vide No. 380, p. 357, note 2.
360
[No. 384.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1784, October 12th, Trich[inopol]y. Received 22nd April,
1786.—" I did myself the pleasure to address you by the Pigot ;
and this is chiefly to introduce to you Major Geils,!" who is
lately arrived from England, but owing to the neglect of the
Court of Directors is obliged to return thither for ascertaining
what corps he is to serve in, which after 19 years' zealous and
faithful service is a hard case. He is a very brave and excellent
officer in various departments of the service. Upon those
grounds may I presume, Sir, to hope that you will promote his
views so far as to hasten his return to this country ? . . . "
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 1 p., Mo.]
[No. 385.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bt., Bruton Street,
London.
1784, November 20th, Trich[inopol]y. — Advises despatch of
a piece of musUn for Miss Palk by the hand of Captain Gardner,
102nd Regiment.
[Holograph, 1 p.. Mo. Wax seal inscribed " Thomas Palk "
in Persian characters].
[No. 386.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to Sir Robert Palk.
1784, December 4th, Calcutta. — " I am exceedingly obliged
to you for your congratulations to me on my marriage,*^' and
for the kind notice which you. Lady Palk and my cousins have
taken of your new relation[s]. It is a circumstance esteemed
extremely fortunate by them, and brings to mind the friendly
attentions which Mrs. Powney experienced from you at Madras.
They hope to enjoy the continuance of your regard, and do not
doubt of making you every return of gratitude which it is in the
power of sincerity to inspire. . . .
" Kennaway, in a joint letter with me, has informed you
fully of the state of your nephew's affairs. We hope that, im-
mediately after your knowledge of the contents of his will, you
will send us explicit instructions regarding the legacies and the
disposal of the property remaining in this country. It is now
almost confined to the house in Calcutta and the Company's
(1) Thomas Geils entered the Madras Artillery in 1767. He was transferred in
the following year to the Engineers, and, as Captain, was employed in 1779 on the
demolition of the fortifications of Pondicherry. On his return in 1784 from home
leave the Directors failed to specify the corps with which Major Geils was to
serve, but, after consultation with Gecerals Caillaud and Sir Robert Barker, they
posted him in 1787 to the Artillery as Lieut. -Colonel. He became Major-General in
1790, and was Commandant of "Artillery during the mutiny at St. Thomas's Mount
in 1798. For his action on that occasion he was censured. He married Mary Pascal
in 1773, and died in Scotland in 1815. ,
(2) Henry Vansittart, jun., married Miss Catherine Ann Powney at Calcutta in
February, 1783.
361 [No. 386.
bonds. The house, I think, should not be sold for much less
than 50,000 S.Rs. . . .
" Mr. Hastings has rejoined us in Calcutta, but before his
return had the misfortune to lose his only friend in Council,
Mr. Wheler. The other members have not yet commenced an
active opposition, but the Settlement is now trembling and
confounded with the expectation of a change of Government.
Mr. Hastings has declared himself on the point of departure,
and desired that the Burrington, Indiaman, may be detained
for him.
" Our situation at present is very disagreable. There is talk of a
reform and retrenchment of expences. The latter is to be effected
by a reduction of the avowed allowances of the Company's
servants, of which a complete statement has been made out.
The amount of my commission is very considerable, and in case
such a plan should be carried into execution, more liable to
reduction than any other. The secret and illicit emoluments
will be untouched, so that persons whose advantages are of this
description will have a great superiority over those to whom
the Council have thought proper to allot a fair and legal recom-
pence for their services. I speak only of reports, and am by
no means certain that such an event will happen. On the
contrary, I think the measure will not be pursued in the tottering
state of the present Council on the eve of a change. . . ."
In July last Mrs. Vansittart presented me with a son, who
has been named Henry. Mr. Abraham is living with me, but
he will shortly move into Writers' Buildings. Kennaway,
Stables'i' and I agree in advising him to enter the Commercial
branch, where he may have an initial salary of Rs. 400 to
Rs. 500, rather than the Political or Revenue.
" Henry Vansittart."
[Autograph, 4 pp.. Mo. Duplicate.^
[No. 387.]
Henry Vansittart & R[ichard] Kennaway to Sir Robert
Palk, Bart.
1784, December 28th, Calcutta. — " You were informed in
our letter by the Surprise of the application from Captain
Asquith for payment for the passage to England of Mr. Burt
the surgeon, and of the refusal we gave to it. Lest this matter
should be litigated in England we think it necessary to inform
you of the following circumstances, the knowledge of which
may be serviceable in resisting the claim. Colonel Watson
demanded passage money upon this plea, that no surgeon was
necessary for the care of the ship's company, whereas it
(1) John Stables, a Bengal civil servant, succeeded Philip Francis as a member of
the Supreme Council.
No. 387.] 362
happened on the passage that many of the seamen had absolute
occasion for his assistance, which Mr. Burt gave them at the
formal requisition of Captain Asquith. After this he became
to all intents and purposes surgeon of the ship, and has recovered
allowances in that capacity from Colonel Watson by the decision
of referees or arbitrators. The claim to passage money of
course, if any previously existed, was done away with by this
act, which rendered him an officer of the ship. . . .
" We observe that in the will Mr. Palk bequeathes[2,000Z. to
his brother Mr. Thomas Palk on the Coast, from whom is due
by his books Current Rupees 20,359 12as., in part of which his
bond for Current Rupees 19,290 10 is in our possession. This
bond we recommend to be delivered up to him, the debt being
about cancelled by the legacy. . . .
Henry Vansittart,
R. Kennaway."
[Autographs, 5^ pp., 4<o.]
[No. 388.J
George Baker to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1785, January 25th, Fort St. George. — My^last letter, dated
10th October, was sent by the Pigot, which was due to sail for
England on the 15th idem. For want of cargo, however, and
to save demurrage, she was diverted to the eastward, but she
has now returned here, and will leave for Europe early in
February.
" Colonel Pearse's detachment is, I suppose, arrived in
Bengali by about this time. The last letter that I had from
Captain J. Kennaway was on his leaving Ganjam, in which he
told me he hoped to be in Calcutta about the end of the year . . .
" Mr. Hastings came down to Calcutta about the beginning
of November, and it was then said that he intended to go home
by the ships of this season ; but as a copy of Mr. Pit[t]'s amended
Bill has been received here with a few letters from England
dated the 6th of August last, and as the purport of the
whole has been . . . received in Bengali, it is now confidently
reported here that the Governor General has declared it to be
his intention to continue in India some time longer.
" It is said that Lord Macartney keeps the Greyhound packet,
which [is] now in this road, till the new Bill shall have passed
and be received here, together with the Court's of Controul and
Directors' Orders in consequence thereof, that he may be sure of
a passage home immediately if he shall then be either desireous
or in want of it.
" The bulk of the troops are in cantonment at Arcot. The
King's officers there have complained loudly of the impropriety
of the commanding officer's (Brigadier General Horn[e]) privilege
363 [No, 388.
of selling arrack to the troops ; in consequence of which our
Government have by public advertizement signified their desire
to receive proposals for furnishing the troops . . . with that
article by contract. Horn[e] is called down, but is appointed
to command all the troops to the southward of the Colleroon,
and General Campbell'^' is sent up to Arcot to command there
in his stead.
" The Batta, which was to have been taken off on the 31st
of the last month, the Board have now declared to be their
intention to continue till further notice. Indeed they could not
do otherwise, the clamours of the Army haveing been so loud
on that score that I believe nothing less than a general mutiny
would have been the consequence of their persisting in their
former resolution. . . .
" It is proposed to send a Committee, comprising the Com-
mander-in-Chief and Chief Engineer, to examine the forts
throughout the Carnatic with the object of determining which
shall be preserved and which demolished. A Committee of
Accounts has lately been appointed to examine all financial
claims on the Company. Mr. William Jackson,'^' one of the
members, who has been deputed to the country south of the
Coleroon, finds huge war claims put forward there.
" A small American ship (the first belonging to the United
States) from Phyladelphia arrived at Pondicherry on the 26th
of last month. The captain and supracargoe have been here,
and are just gone back to that place, and talk of returning to
America soon.
" The 52nd Regiment now at Poonamaly are at this moment
in mutiny. I have not yet heard their pretext or complaint,
though I understand that it is rather specious than well
grounded ; for however much the Company's troops are in
arrear, it appears that the King's are so regularly paid as to
leave little reason of complaint on that score.
" Mr. Bussy dyed in the begin[n]ing of this month at Pondi-
cherry. Orders have been received by our Government from
the Governor General and Council to receive from and restore
to the French and Dutch the several places agreeable to the
terms of the respective treatyes. Mr. Floyer is gone to the
southward as Commissary for that purpose.
" Mr. Daniel,'^' who has for the last three or four years been
Chief of Masulipatam, came up here with his family this month
on the Pigot, and means to send them home on that ship ....
Dureing his Chiefship in that Circar he has used extraordinary
exertions with great moderation and good effect in collecting
... a very great part of the arrears of the revenue, amoxmt-
ing, I think, in the whole to some thirty lack of pagodes,
and thereby rendered himself a good and faithfuU servant to
'11 Maioi-General Allan Campbell, a King's officer.
(2) Vide No. 105, p. 135, note 3.
(3) James Daniell. Vide No. 193, p. 208, note 4.
No. 388.J 364
the Company, and a friend to this Settlement, with the character
of an able, worthy, honest man. , . ."
" George Baker."
" P.S.— The 52nd Regiment at Poonamaly submitted. . . ."
[Holograph, 12 pp., 4to.]
[No. 389.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Sir Robert Palk, Baronet.
1785, February 2nd, Madrass. — Nothing extraordinary has
happened since I last wrote except that " Lord Macartney
and Mr. Sadleir challanced with pistoles on the 28rd of September
last near Egmore Fort,'i) when his Lordship was wounded on
his right side, and soon after he is recovered. . . ."
Orders have been sent to this Presidency from Bengal
forbidding the drawing of bills. As this part of the country
has been ruined by the enemy, there is difficulty in finding
money to pay the troops, who are giving trouble.
" General Bussey is dead at Pondichery the 5th of last
month, and since [then] we have taken charge of Cuddalore,
and the French have taken charge of Pondichery."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, l^ p-, 4io.]
[No. 390.]
W[iLLrAM] Wynch<2) to [Sir Robert Palk].
1785, February 3rd, Madras. — I enclose a letter from Mr.
Pybus relating to Goodlad's estate.
Lord Macartney's new system is disliked by the Company's
servants, and the economy he talks of has injured credit. "It's
now with the greatest difficulty even a trifling loan can be
obtained from a black man. Those of the Compan5'^'s servants
who have applied for their arrears of pay have been paid in
Bengal bills, which bills were discounted at 50 per cent., while
Lord Macartney himself regularly every 3 months pocketed his
own pay of 10,000 pagodas, and his Council receiving theirs
at a discount in Bengal bills. . . . Nothing but the most
disagreable circumstances have attended us lately, duels,
dissensions in Council and mutiny among the King's troops."
After being eighteen months without employment I have
been appointed a Commissioner of the Board of Accounts,
thanks to the exertions of my friend Mr. Barclay,'^' one of the
Council. I beg that you will interest yourself on his behalf.
He is desirous of succeeding Mr. Sulivan'*' as Resident of
Tanjore when the latter leaves for Europe.
[Holograph, 2| pp., 4io.] " W. Wynch."
(1) a redoubt about two miles west of i'ort St. George.
(2) William Wynch, son of Governor Wynch, was a civil servant of 1766.
(3) Robert Barclay, a civil servant of 1763, was junior member of Macartney's
Council.
(*) John SuUvan. Vide No. 377, p. 354, note 4.
865
[No. 391.]
[Major] John Shortt'i' to [Sir] Robert Palk.
1785, February 5th, Madras. — I wrote to you last year " on
the interesting subject of a stop being put to my rank in the
government of Lord Macartney and Lieut.-General Lang'^' as
Commander in Chief. The reason I never could arrive at, and
the only answer I received through the Secretary was that it
was the Committee did it from mature consideration." In
order to obtain redress I wrote to you and General Caillaud and
other friends. I now again beg you to use your interest on my
behalf. " I cannot charge myself with any thing more than
being too hospitable heretofore, which, as it has proved
prejudicial to my interest, I will in future study to correct."
[Holograph, 2| pp., Uo.] " John Shortt."
[No. 392.]
CoLURE Seetaram Pundeth to Sir Robert Pai-k.
1785, February 7th, Madrass.- -" With all humility I humbly
presume to address to your honour that after the Northern
Circars became Jaqueer to the Honourable Company, and since
the end of Mr. Bourchier's government to the last of Mr.
Rumbold's government, the Jamidars*^' of Chicacole Circars
are suffered great cruelties and oppressions through the means
of Seetaram Rauz,'*' by which the Honourable Company
suffered a great loss in their revenue."
As an old servant of the Company I presented many petitions
on this subject, but without obtaining, redress. Copies of these
I now send, together with an address for submission to the
Directors and a letter to be kindly forwarded to the Hon.
Edward Monckton.
[2 pp., Uo.]
[Enclosures.]
No. 1. — N.D. — Copy of petition from Collure Seetaram
Pundeth, Mazoomdar,'^' of Vizagapatam, to the Honble.
Thomas Rumbold, Esq., President, and Governor of
Fort St. George. [To the same effect as No. 3 below].
[H PP-> flscp.]
(1) John Shortt (or Short) entered the Madras army as Ensign in 1760, and
attained the rank of Major in 177t<. He was ullimately invalided in India, and
died in 1803.
(2) Boss Lang, a Lieutenant in the Madras European Regiment in 1758, accom-
panied Caillaud's force to Bengal in the following yenr. As Captain he conimanded
a battalion of native infantry at the siege of Madura in 176.3, and as Lieut.-Colonel
served in the first Mysore war, taking command of the expedition on the recall of
Colonel John Wood in 1768. In 1777 Colonel Lang acted as Cnmniander-in-Chief
during the suspension of Colonel James Stuart, and in 1780 he df'fended A'cUore
against Haidar Ah. On the deportation of General Stuart in 1783 Lang was
promoted Lieut.-General and became Commander-in-Chief, holding the appointment
until his retirement in 1785. He married Ann, widow of Captain Thomas Oats
and daughter of Thomas Felling.
(3) Zemindars.
(4) Sitaram Raz. Vide No. 19, p. 28, note 5.
(5) Majumddr, a revenue accountant who keeps a record of the Qoyefnment
collections.
No. 392.] 366
No. 2. — N.D. — Copy of letter or petition from Row
Seetaram Rungarow, Sirdar in the Sircar of Chicacole,
to the Honble. Thomas Rumbold, Esq., President, and
Governor of Fort St. George.
I beg to represent that " my country [is] called Beb-
booly in the Circar of Chicacole under the districts of
Vizagapatam. That Poosapauty Seetaram Rauze and
Vijiaram Rauze having imprisoned my brother Vencata
Runga Row in the Fort of Vij anagram and unjustly
possessed my country ; the said my brother is five and
twenty years of age ; he is not married yet. Since 3
years he is in their confine, and not put on the turband
since he has been confined. . . ." The Chief and
Council of Vizagapatam took no notice of the matter.
Governor Wynch at Madras prevented Mr. Stratton,
the Chief, from releasing the prisoner. Lord Pigot, on
his arrival, referred the case to the Committee of Circuit.
I give some account of my family and that of Poosa-
pauty, and of the disputes and warfare between them,
especially when the French held the Circars.
I now pray that my country may be restored to me,
and my brother released.
[3 pp., flscp.]
No. 3. — N.D. — Copy of petition from Seetaram Pundeth,
Majoomdar, of Vizagapatam, to the Rt. Hon. Lord
Macartney, K.B., President and Governor in Council,
Fort St. George.
Your petitioner represents that he is a Majoomdar
in the Company's service at Vizagapatam. After the
transfer of the Circars Poospatty Seetaram Rajah
recommended a sepoy to the Chiefs as their Dubash,
with resulting loss to the Company. Several Zemindars
were dispossessed of their districts, and the Chiefs, who
had accepted presents, concurred in the spoliation.
The Zemindars were detained prisoners at Vizagapatam,
some of them being put in irons. Your petitioner
appealed on their behalf to the Governor of Madras, first
to Mr. Wynch and afterwards to Lord Pigot. " It
however unfortunately happened that his Lordship was
dispossessed of his Government." Your petitioner then
appealed to Governor Rumbold, but the Rajahs
concerned came to Madras " and presented sums to a
considerable amount to the said Governor, as also to
the Councillors, Secretarys and Dubashes, which entirely
shut their eyes against justice."
Your petitioner prays that you will not suffer the
Circuit Committee to be influenced. by the gifts of the
Rajahs, but direct the Committee sq to act that the
867 [No. 392.
losses of revenue may be repaired and the dispossessed
Zemindars may recover their territories.
[2| pp., flscp.]
No. 4. — Copy of petition of Collore Seetaram Pundeth,
Mazoomdar of Vizagapatam, to the Honble. Warren
Hastings, Esq., President, and Governor General of
Fort William. Dated 8th January, 1785.
Represents that his ancestors and himself served the
Company in Vizagapatam for upwards of a century.
" After the Circars were subjoined to the Vizagapatam
territories the Poospatty Seetaram Rauz, in order the
better to succeed in his own private views, etc., recom-
mended a common seapoy called Jaggoo to the then Chiefs
to act as their Dubash, and by whose means the said
Seetaram Rauz procured the interest of the gentlemen, and
by which he has encroached on several of neighbouring
^Jamidars' countrys, who were known to be well affected
to the Honourable Company. And nevertheless the said
Poospatty Seetaram Rauz killed the Cawsepatty Rauz
and his sons, and also he has closely imprisoned the
Rungarow's son, etc. Jamidars, who are yet in confine-
ment, but some of them are dispersed into different
countries."
Petitioner applied to the late Lord Pigot, who promised
to restore the lands to the Zemindars ; but he is now
no more. Mr. Claud Russell carried the papers to Europe
to submit them to the Court of Directors, but he effected
nothing. He returned to India as Chief at Vizagapatam,
and is friendly with Seetaram Rauz. Petitioner has
presented some papers to the Circuit Committee, but
none to Lord Macartney, as the Governor has a great
regard for Seetaram Rauz.
Petitioner jjrays for redress for the injured Zemindars.
[3| pp., 4*0.]
[No. 393.J
Lieut.-General Ross Lang to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1785, February 9th, Fort St. George. Received 23rd Octo-
ber, 1785. — " I have the pleasure to acknowledge your favor
of the 8th March last by Mf. Abraham, and should have been
happy to have shewn that gentleman any civility in my power
in consequence of your recommendation of him ; but the
shortness of the stay he made here prevented my shewing him
that attention which I could have wished.
" I have the pleasure to inform you that the situation in which
Ca,ptain Collins'^' now is is a very favorable one : he commands
(1) Edward Collins entered the Madras Army as Ensign in 1765, becoming
Captainjin 1772, Lieut.-Colonel in 1786 and Major-Qefleral jn 1795, He dje^ at
Madras jn 1808,
No. 393.] 368
a battalion of Native Infantry. You may be assured that I
shall be happv in an opportunity of serving hnn when m my
power, both ian account of his own merits, and as you are
interested in his welfare. , . , t i ^
" I am fuUv sensible of the obligation under which I lay to
you for confirming the Court of Directors in the good opinion
they had of my services, and the part you have taken in my
favor, and shall hope for a continuance of your support with
them. ..." ,< T. T ')
" Ross Lang."
[Autograph, 2 pp., 4/o.J
[No. 394.]
R[awson] H[aiit] Boddam'I) to Sir Robert Palk, London.
1785, March 12th, Bombay.—" In conformity to your desire
I appUed to Mr. James Hatley, who has had the management of
Mr. Lane's(2) affairs since his demise, for the payment of the
deceased['s] bonds to you. . . . The amount of the assests [sic]
being placed in the Honble. Company's Treasury, no payment
can be received therefrom, on account of the situation of their
affairs and the very heavy debts due by this Presidency ; and
when they will be able to settle them, without assistance in
some effectual mode from Europe, God only knows : therefore
[I] did not chuse to take on me, without your particular
directions, to receive as payment for your demand on Mr. Lane's
estate any transfer on his credit on the Bombay Treasury. . . .
I can at any time . . . get such a transfer made ; but when
you may get paid therefrom I will not pretend even to give a
guess at, as their Bombay Government is so very deeply involved
that any the least prospect seems very distant indeed, and I can
see not even a chance for [it] without some very effectual step
is taken by Government, such as funding the debt altogether,
[that] can ever give any prospect of relief.
" The great changes in the Governments of Madrass and
Bombay by the reduction of their Councils to a Governor, two
civilians and the Commander-in-Chief of the Forces has greatly
affected the senior servants, and I believe nothing but their
being so very deeply involved in their Treasury debt keeps
many now in India. We, thank God, are in entire tranquility
with all our neighbours ; but the idea of losing Mr. Hastings
from Bengali, as private advices lately received assure us he
was to proceed to Eui-ope on the Berrington in the first week in
February last, has thrown a general damp on all our prospects ;
and the late rapid progress and success that has
attended Mahadjee Sindia in now being possessed of the whole
power at the Court of Dilly . . . forebodes no very favour-
able prospects from so able and enterprizing a genius. Time,
(1) Rawson Hart Boddam, Governor of Bombay 1784 to 1788.
(S) Edmund Veale I^ane. Vide No. 150, p. 169, note 3,
369 [No. 394.
however, will disclose matters, and I shall hope that the jealousy
of the Poonah durbar at one of their Jaggeredars being grown so
powerfull will furnish means to attruct [?obstruct] Sindia's
views, so as to leave the Company in full security both for
themselves and allies on that side of India. . . ."
" R. H. BODDAM."
[Autograph, 2^ pp., 4to.]
[No. 395.]
A[braham] Welland to Sir Rob[er]t Palk, Bart.
1785, March 21st, Calcutta. — I am still serving as Assistant
in the Import Warehouse. I was lately recommended as Deputy,
but that post has been otherwise filled. I hope to repay sh^ rtly
the sum which Mr. Kennaway advanced from the estate of the
late Mr. Palk on account of my brother Richard.
" Your dutiful nephew, A. Welland."
[Holograph, 7 pp., Mo.]
[No. 396.]
[Captain] F[rancis] Swain Ward'i) to Captain John
Kennaway.
1785, April 24th. — Printed form of receipt, filled up in MS.,
for Rs. 100 as subscription for one set of Perspective Views of
Hindoo Temples, Buildings, etc., to be published and delivered
within eighteen months in England and two years in India.
Appended is an instruction to deliver to Captain Kennaway or
his order, signed by
[Autograph, 1 p., Uo.] " F. Swain Ward."
\Endo/rsement.\ " John Kennaway desires the views may be
delivered to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street, London."
[No. 397.]
Ozias Humphry'^) to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P.,
Bruton Street.
1785, May 15th, Cape of Good Hope. — I have just heard of the
death of Mr. Wheler,'^' the resignation of Mr. Hastings and the
return of Sir John D'Oyley,'** to each of whom I carry recom-
mendations. " You had the goodness to promise me your kind
favor with Mr. Vansittarf' if he should be appointed Governor.
(1) Francis Swain Ward, though trained as an artist, entered the Madras military-
service. He resigned his commission in 1764 and became Secretary to the Society
of Artists. In 1774 he was reappointed to the Madras Army with the rank of
Captain, when he presented to the Company a set of his landscapes painted in
Southern India. He retired as Lieut.-Colonel in 1786, and died at Negapatam in
1794. A number of his views were engraved by Edward Orme.
(2) Ozias Humphry, portrait painter and associate of Romney and Blake, painted
portraits in India from 1785 to 1788. He was elected B.A. in 1791, and died in
1810.
(3) Edward Wheler, a member of the Supreme Council.
(*) Sir John D'Oyly, Bt., a Bengal civil servant of 1770, returned to England
in 1784. He went out again in 1804, and died at; Calcutta in 1818.
(5) Cfsorge Vansi^tart,
Y
No. 397.] 370
I take the liberty to write to you from hence to entreat it, as I
shall now be in the East Indies unprotected in a wide sea. I am
sensible how slight a claim I have to your favor, but any service
you have the kindness to do me with Mr. Vansittart, or the
present Governor, or whoever is appointed to succeed him will
be received with thankfulness, and remembered with the
warmest gratitude. ..."
" OziAS Humphry."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4to. Wax seal with crest and initials O.H.]
[No. 398.]
Ensign W[illia]m Preston'i) to [Sir Robert Palk].
1785, May 16th, Madras. — As a supernumerary officer of
Captain Edmonds''^) battalion I am not eligible for the allow-
ance in lieu of half batta ; but General Lang has been good
enough to transfer me to a regiment at Trichinopoly where I
can draw it. " We are informed [that] General Sloper is to
command in India, and General Balling'^' on the Coast. . . .
I shall be very thankfull if you will please to recommend me to
these gentlemen or to Mr. Holland,'*' who [it] is expected will
govern.
" I find this service to be very good, particularly for a single
man, but the pay of an ensign is not sufficient to support a
family. Several subalterns who have their familys with them
were immediately provided for. A fort adjutant's appointment
is very good, I am informed. They are frequently appointed
by the Court of Directors, or strongly recommended by them
to the Governor or Commander-in-Chief for the succession of a
place. I trust. Sir, your goodness will assist me with your
interest, so that I may have it in my power to get my family
out. ..." '
" Wm. Preston."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4io.]
[No. 899.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1785, May 20th, Trichinapoly. — " Though it is now a year
since the restoration of peace, I do not find that in population
or cultivation any material increase has occurred : so effectually
has the sword and famine swept away its inhabitants and
destroyed agriculture. I did think that the Poligar countries
would have been conducive to the saving of thousands of lives,
and that at the conclusion of peace they would be flocking back
(1) William Preston joined the Madras Army as Ensign in 1783. He attained
the rank of Captain in 1798, and died in 1802.
(2) Edward Bdmondes entered the service as a cadet in 176i.
(3) Lt. -General Robert Sloper and Lt. -General Sir John Dalling, Bt., arrived in
1785 as C.-in-C. in India and C.-iu-C, Madras, respectively.
(*) John HoUond, who was expected to succeed Ijord Macartney. Vid^ No, 91,
p. 122, note 1,
871 [No. 399.
to their former residencies ; but in this hope I have been cruelly
disappointed. From the CoUeroon to Arcott the country is
almost laid waste from the want of inhabitants to cultivate,
and other countries which have not been so destitute have failed
in their crops from a scarcity of rain ; and from those causes
are we still labouring under a heavy debt and large arrears,
which the continuance of the Assignment and peace can only
relieve us from. God grant them both is my constant prayer,
but sorry I am to say that I fear neither will be of long
duration. . . .
" I am anxious to have some account of Tom, which I am
now in daily expectation of. . . . "
"Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 2^ pp., Uo.]
[No. 400.J
Messrs. Felling & de Fries to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.,
1785, June 12th, Fort St. George. Received 30th March,
1786. — We thank you for your information regarding the dis-
posal in England of the business of the Nawab's creditors.
" Mr. CaU's'i' diligence and assiduity on this occasion deserves
the particular acknowledgement of the creditors, who are now
put on a public and solid footing. The Nabob will no doubt
for some time find much difficulty to fulfil his engagement of
paying annually sixteen lacks of pagodas, 12 on account of his
debt to the Company and creditors and 4 for the expences of the
army, from the ruined state of some part of the country, which
has been almost entirely unpeopled ; but it is possible with
good management and strict oeconomy, should we continue in
peace and tolerable plentiful seasons.
" Lord Macartney left us the 4th instant on the Greyhound
packet for Bengal. He is to call at Vizagapatam, from whence
it is said he means to send his resignation. Our Administration
at present consist of Mr. Davidson, General Sir John Bailing,
Mr. Danniell and General Sloper, who as Commander-in-Chief
of India has a seat and vote in Council.
" The Company's letter to the Nabob has been delivered,
and security demanded for the payments he is to make. We
are told the Nabob is to give Souckar securities, such as they are,
on which the countries will be delivered up to him. Much will
depend on the person presiding over the Company's affairs
keeping always a strict hand in exacting a due compliance with
the different parts of the agreement. Lord Macartney would
have been an excellent person for this purpose, but he was
absolutely against having any thing to do with the Amier,'^'
who has still thewmanagement of his father's affairs, which made
him quit his station sooner than otherwise he would have done ;
(1) Colonel John Call, formerly Chief Engineer and a member of the MadrA'?
Council. Vide No. 19, p. 22, note 4.
(2) AjnJr-uJ-TJinara, Walajah's second soni
No. 400.] 372
and he has declared that he would not accept of the Government
of Bengal should he be appointed to it. . . .
" We are in peace with all the Powers of India, and hkely to
continue so, in which will depend our salvation, for the arrears
and bond debt of the Company in India at present amounts to
upwards of seven millions sterhng, to clear which will require
at least fifteen years of a continuance of peace. The discount
of bonds here is 40 per cent., at Bengal 2.5 and Bombay 70. At
this last Settlement no interest has been paid for four years.
" The French seem to turn their views in India entirely to
commerce. They have a small garrison at Pondicherry and has
done nothing to the fortification of that place. Trincomale
has been delivered up to the Dutch, who has not yet taken
possession of their Factories on this coast. They have been at
war with the Mallays, and in the whole their power in India
seem[s] to be very much on the decline. . . ."
" Pelling & DE Fries."
[3 pp., 4io.]
[No. 401.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1785, July 12th, Trichinapoly. Received 10th April, 1786.—
This goes by a French ship. I am glad to learn " that my little
boy was safe arrived at Haldon House. Your intentions of
putting him to the school at St. Mary Ottery has given us much
pleasure, and I doubt not from the tendency of his disposition
but he will give Lady Palk and you, my very much esteemed
Sir, satisfaction. Mrs. P. is very desirous of embracing the
opportunity of General Lang's return to Europe to send Kitty
and Bob with her sister Mrs. Lang, but I think Bob too young
to be parted with. . . .
" By the late orders from home the Nabob is upon the point
of being again put in possession of the Carnatick. This day or
to-morrow it will, I believe, take place, his Highness having
engaged to pay to the Company 4 lacks of pagodas more than
the Presidency had authority to stipulate for. Should the old
gentleman perform, we shall have no occasion to repent the
change, though our situation cannot well be worse than at
present. Besides the old arrears to the troops we are incurring
new ones from 1st February last, going on 6 months. Having
told you this, you will be naturally led to conclude that there
are defects somewhere. It is a melancholy truth, as is that of
the troops having suffered a loss of 8 per cent, in all payments
since Mr. Irwin'^' received the management of this district,
arising from his introduction of the debased coin of Tinnevelly,
and stopping the coinage of this. Complaints liave been made,
but the transaction has been so plausibly coloured over that
Lord M. approved of it. Such injustice to troops meriting the
ID Eyles Irwin, a, civil servant of 1768, was one of the Cominissioii^rs of Assignecl
Revenue in 1781,
373 [No. 401.
most kind treatment, who have to my knowledge for the last
4 years laboured under the most uncommon hardships, is most
sensibly felt, and if not redressed by this Government, which I
hope is a more moderate one than the last, meaning Lord M.'s,
a very unpleasant detail of grievances will be laid before the
Company. Believe me. Sir, I have seen the native troops
perishing in the streets, selling their children for a rupee, and it
is not a month ago that they were begging about the canton-
ments almost in the same condition. . . . These, Sir, are
truths that happen under my own eye. The native troops are so
sensible of the ill-treatment they have received from Government
that it is the general opinion they never will suffer themselves
to feel the like distress again. The reasons are many and
obvious for my communicating these facts to you, for it is my
opinion that the existence of the British Empire in India
depends upon their being redressed or not.
" Mr. Davidson is at present in the Chair, and I cannot say
that our honourable masters have shewn their wisdom in
providing a successor to Lord M., but we are in daily expecta-
tion of Mr. Holland's'!* arrival. . . ."
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.]
[No. 402.]
Tho[ma]s Abraham to Sir R[obert] Palk, Bart.
1785, August 6th, Calcutta. — It is reported that Lord
Macartney, who arrived here five or six days ago, after resigning
the Government of Madras, has been appointed Governor
General of Bengal. As, however, he has not taken his seat, it
is thought he must have declined the post. Failing his Lordship,
I hope that Mr. Vansittart will be appointed. The Government
are retrenching expenditure, and the people of Calcutta are
preparing a petition against certain clauses of the late Act of
Parliament. <^>
I send my respects to Lady and Miss Palk, and beg you to
remember me to Lawrence when you write to him, as I under-
stand that he is now in France.
" Thos. Abraham."
[Holograph, 3 pp., Mo.]
[No. 403.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Sir Robert Palk, Baronet.
1785, September 17th, Madrass. — In May last orders arrived
from the Company to restore the Assigned Districts to the Nawab,
and to receive from him yearly 12 lakhs of pagodas on account
of his debt to the Company and private creditors, and 4 lakhs
(1) Mr. John Hollond was nominated by the Directors to succeed Lord Macartney,
but he declined the appointment. After the resignation of Sir Archibald Campbell
in 1789 Mr. Hollond served for a year as provisional Governor.
(2) The India Act of 1784.
No. 403.] 374
for current charges. Lord Macartney, disapproving of these
instructions, resigned and proceeded to Bengal on his way
home. The Company's packet delivered here on the 16th July
nominated him Governor General of Bengal. The orders were
at once forwarded to Calcutta, but Lord Macartney declined
the appointment and sailed for England in the Swallow on the
10th August.
The Government here is in the hands of Mr. Davidson, with
Sir John Balling and Mr. Daniell as Councillors. They arranged
to deliver the territories to the Nawab, but the latter could not
find sowcar security for the payment he was bound to make.
He promised, however, to pay three lakhs this month, six in
January and seven in June.
" The Marattys sent their Vackeel here to request for our
assistance to beat Tippoo. By what I hear our Government
does not chuse to do it. I hope they will do, and destroy
Tippoo entirely, as he is always [an] enemy to us."
It is reported that General Campbell'^) is to succeed Lord
Macartney. As the latter has refused Bengal, it seems likely
that the General will go there, in which case another appointment
will be made to Madras.
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2^ pp., Mo. Duplicate.]
[No. 404.]
George Bakek to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1785, October 10th, Fort St. George. — I send this by Mr.
Thomas Barnard,'^' late of the Masulipatam Council, who takes
his passage by a French ship from Pondicherry. I acknowledge
receipt of your letters of December, 1784, and March and April;
1785, and thank you for all you have done towards recovering
my money from the Company. Mr. Kennaway wrote to me
in April that the principal sum of my bonds had been received,
but only two years' interest instead of three.
" George Baker."
[Holograph, 3 pp., 4<o.]
[No. 405.]
FuTwooD Smerdon to Walter Palk, jun.,<^* Ashburton.
1785, November 8th, Ottery. — " As it is usual with me to
send my bills half yearly, I have taken the liberty of writing
out Master Palk's,'*' which you will, I trust, find perfectly right.
He is in good health and spirits, and has no suspicion that the
Christmas vacation is drawing on.
(1) Major General Sir Archibald Campbell, K.B., an officer of Royal Engineers
of 1758, was lent to the East India Company from 1764 to 1772 as Chief
Engineer, Bengal. He was Governor of Madras from 1786 to 1789.
(2) Thomas Barnard, a civil servant of 1765, known for his valuable survey of
the Company's JagXr.
(3) Son of Walter Palk, sen., and nephew of Sir Robert Palk.
(*' Thomas Palk, jun., son of Thomas Palk of the Madras civil service.
375 [No, 405.
" The dancing master, Monsr. Faye, having succeeded Tolver
in his schools, demanded no entrance for your nephew. Master
Tom begs me to. present his affectionate duty to his Uncle and
Aunt, who will have the goodness to accept of mine and Mrs.
Smerdon's respectful compliments."
" FuTWOOD Smerdon."
" Master T. Palk to Michaelmas, 1785 {half-year).
" Board and tuition, £15 15s. ; washing, £] Is. ; mending, 5s ;
servants, 5s. ; shoe-cleaning, 2s. 6d. ; in weekly threepences,
5s. 9d. ; spelUng book, Reading made easy, Watts' hymns
and a smaller book, 2s. 6d. ; April 11, a pair of gloves and gar-
ters. Is. 6d. ; June 17, paid driver for conveying Master P. to
Exeter, 2s. ; gave Master P. at same time, 6d. ; to cutting hair
at different times. Is. ; a hymn book and prayer, Is. 4d. ; Total
£18 3s. Id.
" Dancing master to Michaelmas, £1 lis. 6d. ; entrance, nil ;
writing master, 12s. ; shoemaker's bill, lis. 3d. ; two pair of
worsted stockings, 3s. Total, £2 17s. 9d."
[Holograph, 2 pp., ito. Wax seal with monogram.]
[Endorsement.] — " Mr. Smerdon's bill, £21 Os. lOd. ; to a
pair shoes, 2s. 9d. ; to breeches and waistcoat, 14s. 7d. ; to a
hat, 4s. 3d. ; to entrance at Mr. Smerdon's School, £4 4s. ;
to Mrs. Cooksley for schooling, £3 Is. 6d. ; to Mr. Davis for
cloath, £l 6s. ; to Mr. Stone for shoes, 7s. ; to a hat, 10s.
Total, £31 10s. lid.
" 9 Nov., 1785. Received the above.
"Walter Palk, Junr."
[Autograph, 1 p.. Mo.]
[No. 406.]
Lawrence Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Haldon House,
Exeter.
1785, December 3rd, Neuchatel. — I enclose a letter for Sir
Bourchier Wrey. " I am happy to find that my sister has made
so good a choice, and it is the most anxious wish of my heart
that she may meet with that happiness she most justly merits.
... I am but just risen from my bed, to which I have
been confined this week past by an operation which has given
me the greatest pain, but the good effects of which I already
begin to feel. Having been recommended to a dentist, the
excellency of whose talents has gained him a decided superiority
over the other masters in his profession, I determined to follow
the advice of my friends, and summoned up sufficient resolution
to have one of those great tusks entirely pulled out, and the rest
of my teeth put in order. The operation, I can assure you, has
succeeded, and though the pain has not entirely left me, I have
every reason to be satisfied, and my mouth is no longer ashamed
to be seen.
No. 406.] 376
" I am now quite settled, and find my residence very agreable.
The language comes apace, and I am now able to join pretty
well in the conversation. ... At present the French and
fencing masters only give me employment, but I intend taking
a drawing master, as I find there is one of ability here, and
every day convinces me of the utility and pleasure which is to
be derived from a knowledge of that art. . . ."
" Lawrence Pai.k."
[Holograph, 3 pp.. Mo. Wax seal with crest.']
[No. 407.]
A[braham] Welland to [Sir Robert Palk].
1785, December 13th, Guttaul. — " By the arrival of the last
ships from England we find that the Court of Directors have
thought proper to reduce our salaries more than one half,
and also to Add that this is but a trifle to what we may expect.
Small as they may conceive it to be, I am apprehensive it will
cause a very great change, for how can it be supposed that when
we are not allowed a sufficiency to live on we shall scruple at
peculation of any thing else to procure a competency ? Should
they also, as we hear it is intended, cut off the batta from the
allowances of the officers, this country, I fear, will not remain
much longer in their hands. A number of gentlemen have already
resigned their offices, and are gone to live at Serampore, Chin-
surah and Chandernagore on account of every thing being much
cheaper at those places than in Calcutta. Many others have
given up the Company's service altogether, and are going home
on the ships that are now about to sail. A captain of one of the
Indiamen has received a lack and [a] half of rupees for passengers
only. Five and twenty families, besides a number of other
gentlemen of the first rank in the service intend to return this
year to Europe. Mr. Larkins,'^' the Accountant General, has
had fifty thousand rupees cut off from his salary. Mr. Kenna-
way is reduced from two thousand to five hundred rupees per
mensem, and the rest in proportion. Small as my allowances
were, they have, however, thought fit to deduct four hundred
rupees from it monthly. In short, there is not a Company's
servant from a Senior Merchant to a Writer but who has in some
degree suffered ; so that the misfortune, being general, is not
so severely felt as it otherwise would be. The saving altogether
to the Company amounts to about fifty lacks of rupees. The
Governor and Council had, before the arrival of these orders,
reduced our establishment as low as was thought possible, but
this was so very small in comparison to the Court of Directors'
[instructions] that they will gain neither credit nor honor by it.
" On the 6th instant the Montague, Capt. Brittel, was burnt at
her moorings at Diamond Point. Fifty of her people perished,
among whom [was] her chief officer. The Dublin was much
(1) William Larkins, a Bengal civil servant.
377 " [No. 407.
hurt by the explosion. It was occasioned by the carelessness
of the armourer, who in carrying some fire from the galley to the
forge let drop a few coals on the salt petre, which instantly took
fire, and notwithstanding all the exertions of the crew com-
municated itself to the whole ship. This is the fifth Indiaman
the Company have lost by fire within these two years past.
" Our petition to the House of Commons against certain
clauses X Mr. Pitt's Act of Parliament"' will be ready to be
sent home by the last ship of the season. A committee of fifteen
gentlemen have been sitting for these six months past, among
whom is Mr. Vansittart. The petition has been framed, and
signed by most of the people here. Old Price,*^' the person
who wrote so virulently against Mr. Macintosh'^' and Mr.
Francis, has, under the feigned name of An Inhabitant of Calcutta,
given every support in his power to the Bill. No person on its
first arrival could say more against it than he did, and I am
very certain that he was one of the party who at a drinking
bout burnt it. '
" Accompanying I have the pleasure of sending you all the
news papers for the last year, and also Mr. Dallas's'** speech at
a meeting of the inhabitants of Calcutta, with many other
publications, which I hope will afford you some amusement ..."
" Your very dutiful nephew, A. Welland."
[Holograph, 8 pp., Mo.]
[Enclosure.] Printed copy of resolutions passed " at a
meeting of the British inhabitants of Calcutta, held at the
Theatre on Monday the 25th of July [1785] in pursuance of a
public summons by the High Sheriff at the request of the Grand
Jury, on the 15th of June last, for the purpose of taking into
consideration the propriety and necessity of a petition on certain
parts of an Act of the 24th of his present Majesty, entitled 'An
Act for the better regulation of the affairs of the East India
Company and of the British possessions in India, and for
establishing a Court of Judicature for the more speedy and
effectual trial of persons accused of offences committed in the
East Indies.' "
Eighteen resolutions were proposed and unanimously agreed
to. The following are the most important : —
Resolution 2. Protests against the obligation imposed on
the Company's servants, on their return home, to deliver upon
oath an inventory of their whole property.
Resolution 3. — Represents that the new tribunal deprives
them of their birthright, trial by jury.
Resolution 4. States that the Act renders them liable to
(1) The India Act of 1784, which established a Board of six Commissioners for
India, commonly known as the Board of Control.
(2) Captain Joseph Price wrote pamphlets in defence of Hastings against Francis
and Macintosh.
(3) WiUiam Macintosh, author of Travels in Europe, Asia, etc. (1782), was a
supporter of Francis.
(1) George Dallas, a Bengal civil servant of 1776. He was created a baronet in
1798.
No. 407.] 378
be sent forcibly to England, there to be tried for offences said
to have been committed in India.
Resolution 7. States that petitions to the King and Parhament
are desirable.
Resolution 8. Determines that a Committee of fifteen be
appointed to draw up petitions.
Resolution 13. Gives the names of the Committee. ^
[2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 408.]
F. D'lvERNOis to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Haldon House,
Exeter.
1785, December 24th, Neuchatel. — I notice the hint you
have given your son regarding an early move to Germany and
Italy. I was about to make a similar suggestion. The fact
is, your son is too much at home at Neuchatel. His familiarity
with the society we meet tends to make him relax that effort
to please which he would be compelled to exert with fresh
acquaintances of superior rank. . . . The notion which Mr.
Beeke'i' has imparted to you of your son's spending the coming
summer in Germany is well adapted to this end, provided
that his halts are limited in duration, that he obtains recom-
mendations to the Courts of Dresden, Berlin and Vienna, and
that he associates with people of the country rather than with
young English travellers. Here he is too intimate with Mr.
Spencer, who resides in this house. The latter is of good
family and possesses many excellent qualities, but he has more
to gain by association with Palk than your son with him.
Spencer is apt to be idle, and he deprives your son of time
which would otherwise be devoted to literature.
Your son will certainly be reluctant to quit Neuchatel, but
there is no object in his remaining save the improvement of
his French, in which he makes steady progress. I suggest that
you might urge him, as if of your own motion, to spend March
in the south of France in order to perfect himself in the
language, which is spoken more rapidly there than in
Switzerland. . . .
" F. D'lVERNOIS."
[Holograph, French, 3 pp., 4to. Wax seal, defaced].
[No. 409.]
A[braham] Welland to ^ [Sir Robert Palk]. •
1785, December 25th, Calcutta. — I am sorry to hear that my
friends consider me backward in writing to them. " I would
willingly compound with their employing one hour to my two
in our correspondence. ... I have not received more than
twelve letters from them since my residence in this country,
(1) Vide No. 470, p. 420, note 1.
379 [No. 409.
which is now almost four years. I do not, however, inehide
you in this number. . . .
" T shall certainly follow your advice with regard to my
cousin Abraham.*!' He at present lives with me in the Writers'
Buildings, to which I have, since the late reductions, been
entitled to a room. I must indeed own that my utmost exertions
have lately been used to rid him of a little of his country rust,
and by dint of perseverance my efforts in some respects have
not been rendered ineffectual. I shall now, however, change
my conduct, and from being master submit myself to be a
scholar. He undoubtedly deserves great credit for his attention
to business, and in leading so regular a life. If one may judge
of his future fortune by his present manners, I will venture to
say that he will not discredit your opinion of him.
" I always have and shall continue to apply to Mr. Kennaway
for his advice or assistance, whenever necessary. . . . The
late reduction in his salary has given him much discontent, and
I should not wonder if he was, in the space of one or two years,
to return to Europe. Captain Kennaway is at present at
Benares, but will come to Calcutta soon. Since his arrival
from the Coast he has labored under a severe fit of sickness, and
we were at one time in some anxiety for fear that his ill state of
health should oblige him to quit the country.
" The Surprise packet has, we hear, brought great news, but
the particulars have not yet transpired. We are all much
surprised at Mr. Macpherson's being continued in the Govern-
ment. His abilities are no ways suited to it, nor indeed are
any of his coadjutors, particularly Mr. Stables, whose head is
too thick ever to cut a very conspicuous figure. I think the
character Mr. Hastings gave of them in his last letter to the
Court of Directors was a very just one. Six lacks of rupees
were dispatched the other day to Bombay, and they have also
incumbered themselves with the whole debt incurred there by
the Maratta War. Twelve lacks more are ordered on board the
Rodney for Madrass, while our most capital merchants here are
distressed beyond measure for cash, and have almost stopped
business for want of money. . . .
" General Sloper has lost a good deal of his popularity here
by appointing King's officers to the command of the out stations,
greatly to the detriment of the Company's military, who have
held several meetings to consult about it. . . .
" Your dutiful nephew,
" A. Welland."
[P.S.J — " Major Cloud's'^' regiment of seapoys have confined
their officers, and will not march till their whole arrears of pay
are given to them."
{Holograph, 8 pp., 4<o.]
(1) Thomas Abraham. Vide No. 380, p. 357, note 2.
(2) Apparently Major William Clode, Bengal Infantry, who entered the service
in 1766.
380
[No. 410.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1785, December 25th, Triehinapoly. — " I have just heard
that the Rodney Indiaman is to be at Madras about the end of
the month, and to wait there but twenty-four hours. By her
I have the pleasure to send you duplicate of a sett of bills for
£2,000, and the first of another sett for £4,400, both made
payable to you. The first remittance of £800 through the same
channel is, I hope, paid. ...
" Mrs. Palk and the three young ones are very well. We
wece disappointed in not having a single line by the Surprise,
but suppose her dispatch to be sudden. . . .
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 2 pp., 4<to.]
[No. 411.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, January 5th, Madrass. Received 26th August. — By
advices received from England in November we heard that the
ships of the new French East India Company may be expected
to arrive this season, and that all private merchants must cease
trading by the 8th October. There are now about 2,000
European troops at Pondicherry, where some work on the
fortifications is in progress.
We are happy to learn that free trade to Manila is now open
to us. Mr. Sadleir, Chief at Masulipatam, has preferred sundry
charges against Mr. Daniell, who is about to sail for England.
There has been good rain, and the country is in better condition
than it has been at any time during the past five years.
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, 2| pp., 4>to. Duplicate.]
[No. 412.]
Messrs. Pelling & de Fries to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, January 12th, Fort St. George.—" The Nabob appointed
Messrs Storey'^' and Binny'^' his agents to meet the Company's
Commissioners for ascertaining the three classes of his debt to
individuals, agreeable to the orders from Europe. The interest
on the bonds has been adjusted to the 31st December, 1784,
when the total of the three debts amounted to near seventy
lacks of pagodas. The Nabob has been paying regularly
according to the agreement he entered into with this Govern-
ment to pay annually sixteen lacks of pagodas. If the Company's
orders are strictly adhered to, the creditors should have a
dividend in next month ; but there is no saying what the
necessity of this Government may induce them to do, for the
fl' Dr. Robert Storey, surgeon to the Nawab.
<2) Charles Binny, formerly secretary to Sir Thomas Rumbold, was now secretary
to the Nawab.
881 [No. 412.
expenses are very great. The King's troops are a heavy charge.
The arrears to the army remain still unpaid, and Government
paper [is] selling at a great discount from the continual increase
of the bond debt, as most accounts are adjusted by granting
bonds. The distresses of individuals from not having received
any part of the Nabob's debt for so long a space of time are
great, and affect the trade and welfare of the Settlement.
" Mr. Sadleir, Chief at Mazulipatam, seem[s] to be more
employed in preparing accusations and informations against
his predecessors than in collecting the revenues entrusted to
his charge. Mr. Daniell goes by this ship, and Mr. Floyer is to
succeed him at the Council Board.
" We have had a report for a week past that Tippoo is killed.
It wants confirmation, but the report coming from various parts,
it is probable he has met with some misfortune. The Marattas
[are] threatening invading his country. We have had no inter-
course of trade with the Mysore Country since the peace,
Tippoo keeping the passes closely guarded. . . .
" We have a report that the Company, having taken up an
extraordinary number of ships this year, will permit their
servants and others living under their jurisdiction to send piece
goods on freight to England. This will be a wise plan, as the
Company have no funds for carrying on an Investment on the
Coast, there being hardly a thousand bales made on their
account during the whole year ; and if private trade is per-
mitted to be carried on the Company's ships, it will be a great
convenience to their servants or others living under their
protection, and will be of great national benefit. It will besides
effectually defeat the commercial operations of foreign nations
to India, as they will be deprived of the assistance of British
money. If the Company don't fall on some such method, they
will neither benefit by their trade nor be able to act in
competition with the foreign traders."
" Felling & de Fries."
[2 pp., Mo.]
[No. 413.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, January 12th, Trichinapoly. — I enclose two sets of
bills in your favour, one for 2,000Z and the other for 4,000/.
This goes by a French conveyance.
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 1 p., flscp.]
[No. 414.]
Walter Palk, jun., to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Haldon
House.
1786, January. 16th, Ashburton. — I return the letters from
Vansittart and Kennaway. I have consulted my father, who
No. .414.] 382
agrees with me that their claims on my brother Tom and
Abraham Welland should be relinquished. The . legacies to
them may accordingly be paid. I have entered the legacy to
Thomas Withecombe,'i' as it was omitted before.
" Walter Palk, jun."
[Holograph, 1 p., 4io.]
[No. 415.J
F. D'lvERNOis to Sir Robert Palk, Bruton Street.
1786, January 17th, Neufchatel. Received 28th January. —
I hasten to give the information you ask for about your son's
teeth. Two of the upper ones were irregular, a circumstance
which not only affected what may be called la decoration de sa
bouche, but interfered with its hygiene. A lady who is a friend
of your son advised him to avail himself of the skill of a dentist
of repute who visits Neufchatel twice a year. The dentist was
at first inclined simply to remove both teeth, but he afterwards
judged that the interval left by one of them would allow of his
replacing the tooth after he had extracted it and reduced its
size. This was the operation which he skilfully performed on
a courageous patient. The space left by the tooth which was
entirely removed has already diminished. Our only fear now
is that the other tooth, which was taken out and replaced may
not become as firm as the rest.
I thank you, Sir, for your interest in what concerns myself.
I am entirely at your service if you wish me to continue the
tour as your son's companion. His friend I shall ever reniain.
He is prepared to leave Neufchatel in March if the roads are then
practicable. In travelling through Germany I propose that
we hurry over the smaller Courts and make a prolonged stay
only in the three or four principal cities. Dresden would be the
first place for such a stay on our way to Berlin, unless the Court
Palatine should be at Mannheim. Letters of recommendation
we shall of course need.
" F. D'lvERNOIS."
P.S. — In the account which I sent you last October there was
a slight error, although the total was correct. The personal
expenses for three travellers should have been L5,057, and the
common expenses L8,676 16s. Total Ll3,733 16s.<i) Of the
personal expenses I owe L626. The balance relates to Messrs
Palk and Beeke.
Our further expenses from the 27th Sept. to the 31st Dec.
have been L6,863 15*., of which Ll,689 10s. is due from me.
Grand total, L20,597 Us.
Should you wish it I will furnish a more detailed statement.
[Holograph, French, 3 pp., 4to. Wax seal with arms, defaced.]
(1) ride No. 22, p. 39, uot.e 1.
(3) Tin; livri! corresponded wjth thp modern fyanc, and pontain§d 20 WW,
388
[No. 416.]
Tho[ma]s Abraham to Sir R[obert] Paj.k, Bart.
1786, January 23rd, Calcutta. — I now hold two appointments
in the Commercial Department, one in the office of Secretary
to the Board of Trade on 100 sicca rupees a month, the other in
the Export Warehouse on 150. In the Revenue Department I
receive 100, so that with my Writer's allowance I draw about
450 sicca rupees in all. Although the greater part is paid in
paper, on which there is a heavy discount, I esteem myself
fortunate.
" Every person here, I think, seems tired of the present
Government, and I believe it is the general wish that Mr.
Hastings may come out again ; but nobody supposes he will,
unless possessed of greater powers than the Board of Controul
will be willing to give him. . . . There has been some talk
lately of a French war, and that the Council here were going to
send a vessel to the Mauritius to make enquiry relative to some
troops that are there ; but I hope it is without foundation,
as if a war was to break out now, they would probably take
many of our homeward bound Indiamen, which would be a very
great loss to the Company, especially those from China of this
year, as they have so much tea on board. ..."
" Thos. Abraham."
[Holograph, 4 pp.. Mo.]
[No. 417.]
Lawrence Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, February 4th, Besan9on. — " My dear Father, — You will
no doubt be surprised at receiving a letter from me at this place.
Thus far I have accompanied my friend Spencer on his return
to England, and shall leave him tomorrow to proceed on his
journey. He has promised me to be the bearer of this letter
himself. . . ."
From your last letter to M. D'lvernois I judge that you wish
us to leave Neufchatel in March. I fear, however, the weather
will not permit us to start so soon, for there is every reason to
expect snow.
" I hear with pleasure that Lord Macartney is returned from
Madras, and has refused the Governor Generalship : — with
pleasure, because in that case my Uncle George may be sure of
gaining the election if he has the least idea to attempt it.
" I now begin to talk French fluently, but never expect to
arrive at the same point of perfection as my friend Spencer,
whose accent cannot be distinguished from that of a Frenchman.
You may perhaps have an opportunity of hearing him and
judging yourself. For the German, it goes on very slowly, but
•yirhen the first difficulties are surmounted, I flatter myself I
No. 417.] 384
shall make sufficient progress to be able to make my way through
Germany, that is to say at the inns, etc., for as for talking it
fluently, I give up all hopes. ..."
" Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Uo.]
[No. 418.J
F. D'lvERNOis to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street.
1786, February 6th, Neuchatel. — Your son has just returned
after accompanying Mr. Spencer on part of his journey. M. de
Traytorrens went with them. You seem to be unfavourable
to the intimacy with Mr. Spencer, but as the latter lived in the
same house, ordinary courtesy compelled some association,
and it is impossible not to like him. The disadvantage of the
tendency of the two young men to converse in English is now
removed by Mr. Spencer's departure.
You are desirous that we should leave Neuchatel as soon as
possible, but I suppose not before March. Your son would
like to stay longer, and many here will certainly regret his
departure. I beg you to intimate to him, as of your own motion,
the beginning or middle of March as the time for leaving
Switzerland.
" F. D'lVERNOIS."
[Holograph, French, 2f pp., Uo. Wax seal bearing arms.]
[No. 419.]
Henry Vansittart, jun., to John Caillaud,'^' Esq.
1786, February 9th, Calcutta. — I send this by the hand of
your particular friend Mr. Droz.<^' He is embarrassed on
account of his bond of about Rs. 9,000 left by the late Mr. Palk,
which ought to have been cancelled, as Mr. Droz never obtained
the consideration for which the bond was given. The executors
have no power to release Mr. Droz from the debt, but the
circumstances should be laid before Sir Robert Palk in view to
the claim being relinquished. I hope that you will be able to
assist in the matter. Please remember me to Mrs. Caillaud.
" Henry Vansittart."
[Holograph, 2 pp., ito:]
[No. 420.]
The Rev. Samuel Badcock'^* to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, February 11th, South Molton. — " I received the box
of MSS. last week perfectly secure. I shall soon be at leisure
to examine them with the care which they deserve, and will
(1) General John Caillaud. Vide No. 73, 7;. 102, note, 1.
(2) Simeon Droz, a Bengal civil servant of 1764.
(3) Samuel Badcock was a Nonconformist minister of South Molton, Devon,
who contributed to literary magazines, especially the Mcnthly Review. He
entered the Established Church in 1786, and died two years later at tb? age of 41,
385 [No. 420.
endeavour to reduce this disordered mass to some degree of
consistency. I am more and more convinced of their utility
to any one who may have health, abilities and spirit to undertake
a History of the County ; and when arranged on the plan I
have projected, they will be a most curious repository of materials
both to amuse and to inform the antiquary. . . .
" I may at some future period engage in an undertaking of
which indeed I had formed no conception a short time since.
I would not indeed have it publicl)'^ known that I entertain even
the most distant prospect of writing a regular History of the
County of Devon, nor would I have it supposed that I shall
proceed beyond an arrangement of the papers which you have
done me the honour of entrusting to my charge. . . . After
I have classed the MSS., and written a catalogue of them and
such an index to their several contents as may facilitate the
re&earches and inquiries of any person who may have the
curiosity to inspect them, I will return them to you with care
and fidelity."
" Samuel Badcock."
" P.S. — I hope I have not taken too great freedom by enclosing
a letter to a friend who hath the superintendence of the Monthly
Review."
[Holograph, 2 pp., Uo.\
[No. 421.]
Lawrence Palk to Sir Robert Palk.
1786, February 13th, Neuchatel. — " My dear Father. At
my return from Bcsan9on last Monday I found a letter from
you. . . . With regard to quitting Neuchatel, we shall be
ready whenever you think proper. For my own part I must
own I shall be rather sorry to leave it so soon, as I am convinced
it is almost impossible, at least very difficult, to find another little
town, the society of which is so excellent and the manners so
polished. By the departure of Spencer there is no Englishman
but myself in Mrs. Borel's house, and in the town but two, . . .
so that I shall undoubtedly acquire the French much quicker
than I did heretofore. . . .
"I am happy to hear that things are so nearly settled
relative to my sister's marriage. That she may deri\-c from
it every happiness and blessing ... is the only desire of my
heart. . . .
" Mr. D'lvernois tells me he has satisfied you with regard to
the sums we have expended since your last letter of credit . . .
I shall wait till I receive another letter from you before I consult
Mr. D'lvernois upon our tour for the spring. He seems, however,
to prefer Germany to the South of France, and wishes our first
course to be to Berlin. . . .
" I suppose Haldon will be so entirely altered when I return
that it will almost be impossible for me to recognize it. I hear
No. 421.] 386
the winter has been remarkably severe in England, and has
done considerable damage. I hope your plantations have not
come in for their share. My best duty attend my mother, with
love to Nancy and Emelia ... ^^ ^^
[Holograph, 4, pp., 4-to.] " L. Palk.
[No. 422.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Sik Robert Palk.
1786, February 15th, Trichinapoly.— " By this conveyance
(a Dane) I transmit you a third sett of bills on Copenhagen for
2,400Z., which sum will, I hope, bring my remittances to near
10,000/., to which Walter will, I imagine, add the legaci/^\ . . .
" The funding of the Company's debts incurred in India was
very much to be wished by us all, but we have not been guilty
of peculation to that extent as to induce us to accept of it upon
the terms it offers for doing it. However wanting its con-
stituents may be to do their servants justice, I never despaired
of receiving it from the hands of our employers, but the
proposed exchange of Is. 8d. the rupee manifests them to be no
better ; though I cannot think but some error has been com-
mitted somewhere, which the arrival of General Campbell must
clear up. . . . Were it not for the general good character
given of him, we should have little more to hope for than what
we experience from the present Administration. Lord M. is
certainly very culpable in leaving the Chair to so weak and
indolent a man as fills it at present, that never was capable of
conducting even his own domestick affairs.
" Mr. Daniell, appointed Governor C.'s successor, sailed the
very day before this news arrived, and though it is evident the
Company never meant that Mr. Floyer should . . . hold a
seat at the Board, he was sworn in the 14th day after Mr. D.'s
departure, though his appointment to Cuddalore was known
before it took place, and of Mr. Cas[a]major's(2) to succeed
Mr. Daniell. . . ."
[Holograph, 4 pp., 4to.] " Tho. Palk."
[No. 423.]
Messrs. Ayton, Brassey & Co., to Sir Rob[er]t Palk, Bart.,
Bruton Street.
1786, February 17th, Lombard Street. — Messrs. Agassiz,
Rougemont & Co., to whom we gave a guarantee to pay bills
up to 500Z. drawn by your son, inform us that this sum is
exhausted. Please state whether you wish us to give a further
guarantee.
[1 p., Mo.] " Ayton Brassey & Co."
[Endorsed in Sir. R. Palk's hand]. — " Desired Lawrence may
have a credit for a 3rd 500Z. more."
<1) The legacy of £2,000 left by Robert Palk, jun.
<2) James Henry Casamaijor, son of Noah and Rebecca Casamaijor, a civil
servant of 1762. Vide No. 18, p. 22, note 3.
387
[No. 424.]
Messrs. Henry Vansittart & R[ichard] Kennaway to
[Sir Robert Palk].
1786, February 22nd, Calcutta. — A bond from Mr. Droz to
Mr. Palk for Current Rupees 9,000 at 1 per cent, was found
among the latter's papers. It was payable on the 31st January,
1784, when we claimed the amount, but Mr. Droz denied having
received any consideration for the bond. We enclose his
affidavit. He states that the intended consideration " was a
Filature or building for winding silk, in the neighbourhood of
Cossimbuzar, of which he should have received possession to
render the obligation of the bond complete, but which was never
yielded to him : on the contrary, that Mr. Palk, holding a
contract for raw silk under another name with the Board of
Trade, continued to employ this Filature in the provision of his
silk." The latter part of this statement is confirmed by the
enquiries we have made. As to whether the Filature was the
consideration for the bond, we cannot speak positively, but we
are inclined to think that Mr. Droz's assertion is correct. The
Filature was sold by Mr. Palk before his departure for Rs. 8,000.
Mr. Droz says that Mr. Palk promised to return the bond,
but the matter was delayed partly by the latter's illness, and
partly bj'^ his own absence from Calcutta. We have no power
ourselves to grant release, but refer the case to you for disposal.
" Henry Vansittart,
R. Kennaway."
[Autographs, B^pp., ito. Duplicate.]
[No. 425.]
Tho[ma]s Abraham to Sir R[obert] Palk.
1786, February 25th, Calcutta. — " Since my last we have had
agreeable news from England for those who are in the possession
of Company's bonds, and much in arrears, vizt. that the Govern-
ment General have permission to draw on them to the amount
of 6 crores of rupees — about 6 million sterling. The only
objection to this mode of payment is that it is rather a bad
remittance, as the Current Rupee is to be drawn only at Is. 8d.,
and the payment in England will be so very long and doubtful.
There is also a new plan adopted here in the payment of the
Company's servants with a view of stopping the present very
high discount on the Company's treasury orders, and making
the late reductions as light as possible, which at best must be
bad. This is a plan of Mr. Larkins's, the Accountant General.
How far it will succeed time only will discover. The mode is
by certificates bearing interest. . . .
" I had, a few weeks ago, some prospect of going up as an
assistant to the Collector of Chittagong from the promises Mr.
Macpherson made me, and of his wishes to serve me in con-
sequence of my letter to him from Lord North. Indeed I cannot
No. 425.] 388
blame him for it, as another gentleman was applied for by the
Collector, and it is a compliment generally paid the Chiefs and
Collectors of appointing the assistants they apply for. . . .
I have still some hopes of getting up the country some where.
. . . Mr. Macpherson has always been very friendly to
me whenever I have gone to speak to him, and expressed Ms
wishes to serve me, which gives me the greater hopes of success
in my application, as I see everything still goes by interest
notwithstanding the late Act of Parliament. I can convince
you of this no better than by telling you that the greatest part
of the many appointments that have been given away lately
have been given to Scotchmen.
" Mr. Williams'i' from Exeter has got a very good appoint-
ment lately, but it was, I believe, owing to his being appointed
by the Court of Directors to succeed upon the first vacancy.
We are in very great hopes of getting a new Governor in a little
time. Every person seems to be tired of the present one
already. . . .
" My best respects to Lady [and] Miss Palk, Emelia, and
Lawrence %^'hen you write him, as I suppose he is in France ..."
" Thos. Abraham."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.]
[No. 426.]
Messes. Ayton Brassey & Co. to Sir Rob[er]t Palk, Bart.,
Bruton Street.
1786, February 25th, Lombard Street. — Stating that a
further credit of 500L has been assigned to Messrs. Agassiz,
Rougemont & Co., to be drawn on by Mr. Lawrence Palk at
Neuchatel and Vienna.
[1 p.. Mo.]
[Endorsed in Sir R. Palk's hand]. " A third 5001. to
Lawrence."
[No. 427.]
Lawrence Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, March 2nd, Neuchatel. — " My dear Father, — I am
happy to hear that Mr. Spencer has given you the letter with
which I charged him, but am sorry that he has given you so bad
an account of my progress in French. ..."
I shall be ready to leave Neuchatel directly I receive letters
of recommendation and credit. I fear there is no prospect of
meeting I^ord Wycombe, '^l as we cannot reach Vienna under
three weeks, by which time he will have left. I am distressed
to hear of Emelia's serious illness, but hope soon to have better
news.
'1' John Williams, a Bengal civil servant of 1783, was assistant in the Secretary's
office in 1785.
(3) John, only son of the 1st Marquess of Lansdowne and 2nd Earl of Shelburne.
389 [No. 427.
" I shall be extremely happy to hear that my sister is united
to Sir Bourchier.'i* ... I willingly promise that I never will
propose to any lady to whom either you or my mother object,
and your goodness to me upon every occasion makes me flatter
myself you would not wish to oblige me to make choice of one
that I do not approve. Your fortune is certainly of your own
acquiring, and I would not wish to have the least share of it if
you have the least reason to imagine I do not deserve it.
Hitherto I have done every thing in my power to show you
how grateful I am for all the kindnesses bestowed upon me —
kindnesses which I never shall forget, and in return for which
I shall ever make it my study to oblige you. Adieu, my dear
Father ; I earnestly join in every wish that it ra.ay be possible
for me to render myself such a character as you desire, and to
deserve which will always be the endeavour of
" Your ever dutiful and affectionate son, Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 3j pp., 4<o.]
[No. 428.]
Lawrence Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street.
1786, March 5th, Neuchatel. — " My dear Father, — I received
this morning your letter of the 13th last month. ... As it
seems to be your desire that I should quit Neuchatel immediately
I should do it with the greatest pleasure, did not the want of
letters of recommendation hinder me, and more so as it is
impossible to arrive at Vienna before the departure of Lord
Wycombe. ...
" The character I have heard of Sir Bourchier from every
quarter, and especially so from our common friend Mr. Becher,'^'
makes me exceedingly happy in the thoughts of his alliance to
our family. . . .
" Mr. D'lvernois has accompanied his sisters on their return
to Geneva. They have been here for a few days to assist at a
ball I have lately given to my friends at Neuchatel selon I'usage.
... I can assure you he justly merits my confidence. I
esteem myself superiorly happy in having joined so good and
amiable a friend. . . .
" Your account of Lord Cornwallis's success with regard to
the Governor Generalship gives me rather more pain than
pleasure, as I expected my Uncle George*^' would have been
appointed, knowing he rather desired it. . . ."
" Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 3^ pp., Uo. Wax seal.]
(1) Sir Bourchier Wrey, Bt. Vide p. 396, note 1.
(2) Probably Richard Becher, a Director of the Company from 1775 to 1783.
Cf. No. 101, p. 131, note 3.
(3) George Vansittart.
890
[No. 429.]
F. D'lvERNOis to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street.
1786, March 9th, Neuchatel. — I enclose an account of the
money we have drawn since we left England, so that you may
judge what fresh credit will be needed. There is still a balance
of 200 louis with Messrs. Pourtales.
Your son gave a very pleasant entertainment a week ago to
his acquaintances, for it is the custom with the English on
leaving to acknowledge thus the various attentions received
during their stay. What pleased me most was the general
praise accorded to Mr. Palk for the ease, gaiety and air of
distinction with which he did the honours. He was kind
enough to invite my sisters, so I had to be absent four days to
escort them homeward until we could meet my mother half
way from Geneva. On my return your son told me that you
had again urged his departure. He wished to wait for letters of
recommendation to Germany, but I conclude that we shall find
these at Vienna. The cold, however, is so severe just now that
I think we cannot start before the beginning of April.
It would gratify you and Lady Palk could you both witness the
signs of regret which all who know your son show at his impending
departure, and could you realize how greatly he is esteemed.
His progress in French has been marked since Mr. Spencer left ;
and I can promise that before he returns to England he will be
able to speak, if not like Mr. Spencer without accent, at any
rate sufficiently well for an ambassador, the standard generally
aimed at by young Englishmen.
As you direct our journey towards Vienna, I suppose you
have given up the idea of including Italy in our tour. I should
like to know what you propose, so that I may be able to refresh my
knowledge of Italian. Please intimate to Lady Palk the pleasure
I feel at hearing of your younger daughter's convalescence.
" F. D'lVERNOIS."
Since our departure from London to the 9th March we have
received the following : —
L. s.
From Mr. Beeke, London, for expenses in England,
66Z. 5s. 6d. sterhng 1,590 6
Mr. Beeke, on our arrival at Calais, 75 guineas 1,904
Sir J. Lambert, 21st July, 200Z. sterling in
notes 4,966
Mr. Beeke at Neuchatel 72
Messrs. Pourtales, in August, 98 louis for lOOL
sterhng . . . . . . . . . . 2,352
Mr. Beeke at St. Gall and Constance. . . . 600
Mr. Beeke at Berne, a note for 1,000 livres,
which realized only . . . . . . 972
Messrs. Pourtales, 26th September, 150 louis 3,600
Carried over 16,056 6
391 [No. 429.
L
s.
Brought over 16,056 6
From Messrs. Pourtales, 8th Oct. to 31st Jan., seven
payments of 50 louis each . . . . . . 8,400
„ Messrs. Pourtales, 28th February, 100 louis 2,400
i26,856 Qs.
[Holograph, French, 3 pp.. Mo. Wax seal hearing arms.]
[No. 430.]
[George Baker] to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, March 12th, Fort St. George. Received 26th August.—
" It is now about two months since that a report of Tippoo
Sultan's death was first reported and generally credited here.
It continued in this state for about a fortnight, then became
doubtfull or disputed, and continues so to the present hour.
It would gratifye my curiosity if I could but know what our
Government say on that subject to the Company by this dis-
patch, for hitherto they appear to have been as ignorant of the
truth as I am.- But whether Tippoo be dead or alive, we are,
thank God, in peace. Report[s] of the Marahtas' and Nizam's
joynt hostile intentions against Tippoo's co[u]ntry are very
prevalent. . . . Harvest in the Carnatick, now gathering in,
is, compared to the few cultivators of the land, very plentifull,
and the great quantityes of various kinds of grain brought by
sea from the northward has brought the respective prices
thereof down as low as I have at any time heretofore known it.
" You undoubtedly know that a cantonment was (before the
Assignment of the Carnatick was yielded up) fixed on, and
barracks prepareing for about twelve thousand men at or near
Sheveranj, a small village in the road from Canjeveram to
Chingleput, and at about the distance of eight or ten miles from
the former place. The site of this cantonment is, for by far
the greater part, within the boundary, but on the very verge,
of the Companye's Jaghire ; and in order to compleat the plan
thereof to its necessary extent and in the precise situation that
was deemed most eligible, it has been made to extend in one or
more particular parts for a very little space and distance into
the Nabob's country — a circumstance that either gave his
Highness umbrage, or that he did not at least approve of.
This then became a subject of conference or discussion between
his Highness and our Government, which terminated aboTit a
week since in the following manner, vizt. : The Nabob, his son
the Ameer, Mr. Davidson our present Governor, and General
Bailing went to the spot, where and when the former party
formally yielded up to the Company that part of its domain
which fell within the limits of the cantonment on their receiving
from the Company as a compensation for the same such a portion
of the Jaghire as was deemed equivalent thereto. This done.
No. 430.] 392
his Highness the Nabob, either at the desire or with the appro-
bation of our Governor and General, gave the place his name of
Wahlahjah,'!' which when announced to the publick by a
salute of twenty-one guns, all partys returned to their respective
places of residence.
" Thus far was wrote on the 12th. I had more to say, but
was through indisposition obliged to stop, and thus conclude
on the 16th."
[5 pp., Mo. Unsigned, but endorsed in Sir R. Palk's hand]
" From Capt. Baker."
[No. 431.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, March 15th, Trichinapoly. Received 26th August. —
" The Nizam and Marattoes have actually taken the field with
a view of attacking Tippoo, who is not dead, as was the general
belief for two months, and is very busy disciplining his troops
and bringing them together. From hence you may infer that
we keep ourselves exceeding ignorant of what passes beyond
even the walls of Madras, which is truly the case, so indolent and
inactive we are. I cannot penetrate Tippoo's real design by
feigning himself dead and keeping tlie gates of Seringapatam
shut for so long a time, which we know beyond a doubt to have
happened, at a time that his brother and chief officers are so
disaffected to him, and his country threatened with invasion,
unless the report of the intentions of those powers be not true,
and so draw us into a scrape by supposing we would put in our
claims in the participation of his country, which (fortunately
perhaps) our situation has forbid, were the present a more
cnterprizing Government than it is.
" Every one is dissatisfied, and looking out with the most
painful anxietv [for] the speedy arrival of Governor
Campbell. . . ."
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 2| pp., 4to.]
[No. 432.]
Messrs. Felling & de Fries to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, March 18th, Fort St. George. Received 26th August.—
" General Campbell is not arrived yet. We want much an able
Governor : our present Administration is but a feeble one. Mr.
Floyer was taken in to fill the place of Mr. Daniell, who is
returned to Europe. Storms brewing around us. A formidable
army of the Marattas, aided by most of their principal chiefs,
together with the Nizam's army have crossed the Kistna and
invaded Tippoo's country. It is the general opinion that they
will not be satisfied with money only, but intend recovering
(1' Walajabad in the Ohingleput District on the river Palar. Its cantonment,
established in 178(3, was abandoned as unhealthy in 1860.
393 [No. 432.
the countries taken by Hyder from the Marattas, Nizam and the
Patan Nabobs. Tippoo has a very considerable force, but
from his tyrannical disposition don't stand so well in the
affection of his subjects as old Hyder did, whose political
abilities were infinitely superior. The frontiers and confines
of the Carnatick will be filled with armed troops, and although
we have nothing to apprehend directly with the present quarrel
with these Indian Powers, yet in their consequences may affect
us if proper care is not taken by wise and skilful negociation
to preserve our neutrality and our rights unaffected. There
was no truth in the reports of Tippoo's death.
" The Nabob has paid regularly his first and second kists,
amounting to nine lacks of pagodas, and yet no dividend made
to his private creditors. A notice from the Government came
forth on the 14th instant that a dividend of one lack and [a]
half of pagodas will be made on the 1st April, and we are told
that the Company is to have a share of this trifling sum, the
Government here construing that the dividend is to be made
only annually at the end of every year after the 12 lacks of
pagodas are received. This is a great hardship on the creditors,
and we don't know how to help ourselves but by a reference to
Europe. . . .
" The Bengal Go^'ernment has afforded great assistance to
this Presidency in money, etc., and have taken upon them
entirely to pay the King's troops on this coast ; but we appre-
hend these great aids have not been made properly use of.
The arrears of the army still unadjusted. Mr. Sadleir and
Hodges'^' are removed from Masulipatam. . . .
" The Court of Directors have sent out orders under date
15th September last'^' for liquidating their bond debts in India
with bills of exchange to be granted on them. The exchange
for Madras and Bombay is left to the Bengal Government to
fix upon, which is not done yet. Unfavourable as this remit-
tance will be, for it will take up near fifteen years before the
bills can all be cleared on the footing they are granted, yet it
\\ill be of great service, as nimibers may avail of this mode of
realising in preference to keeping their bonds in India without
any prospect of payment, the Company's credit in India being
very low indeed. Bills granted by this Presidency on that of
Bengal are discounted at 30 per cent., and Company's bonds
35 to 40."
[3 pp., 4io.] " Pelling & de Fries."
[No. 433.]
Tho[ma]s Pelling to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, March 18tb, Madras. Received 26th August. — " I now
take the liberty to recommend to your notice two of my grand-
(1) James Hodges. Vide No. 251, p. 248, note 1.
(2) Among the Palk MSS. is a copy of " Court's Orders to Bengal, dated 15th
Sept., 1785, respecting the liquidation of the Company's debts in India " (If p.
fiscp.). This paper was perhaps enclosed in Pelling & de Fries' letter.
No. 433.] 894
children (at present in England under the guardianship of Mr.
Daniel De Castro'^)), the sons of poor Gibson, <2' whom you
knew. He dying insolvent and in their infancy, the care of
maintaining and edvicating them fell to my lot. The humanity
of Governor Hastings was such as to admit these children
minor cadets on the Bengal establishment, and who enjoyed
the Company's indulgence until they arrived at the age of four-
teen years, when they were to appear, or to be struck out of the
list of cadets by a military regulation of Sir Eyre Coote's. To
have had them come out to India at that age, their little educa-
tion would be lost. I therefore requested of Mr. De Castro to
continue them in England until the year 1788, when the eldest
boy will be eighteen and the youngest seventeen years old.
As it is my intention and wish that these lads should make their
first appearance in the world in the military line on the Bengal
establishment, your prevalent and kind assistance will be
wanted my dear Sir. . . .
" Your nephew Mr. Palk and wife are well at Trichin[o]polly.
Their family was increased last year with another son. Young
Robert is a charming boy. My daughter Gibson takes the liberty
to join her daughters in most respectful compliments to your
good self and ladv."
" Thos. Felling."
[Holograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 434.]
Tho[ma]s Abraham to Sir R[obert] Palk, Bart.
1786, March 24th, Calcutta. Received 8th October. — " I
should imagine this Government will incur the displeasure of the
Board of Controul when they find out what little attention has
been paid to the late Act of Parliament in general, but particularly
those parts of it relative to giving away all appointments
according to seniority in the service, which has scarce been
attended to in any one instance, as the number of memorials
that are gone home to the Court of Directors on the subject
will evince . . . It is a Scotch Government, and very few but
Scotchmen get anything . . .
" Amongst the number of expedients lately thought of to
alle^•iate in some measure the present public distress for want
of money there has been one lately suggested, and I think
seems to be approved, which is to establish a bank under the
denomination of ' the General Bank of India ' (a small one we
had before'^') to consist of 100 subscribers, and also meant to
extend to the other Presidencies in the following proportion : —
ID The Do Castros were Hebrew merchants of Madras. In the Fort St. George
records mention is made of Samuel De Castro in 1749, of Daniel De Castro in 1763
and of Moses De Castro in 1766.
(2) Captain Thomas Gibson married Elizabeth Felling at Madras in 1766.
(3) Established by Hastings in 1773, but abolished by the new Council of the
Governor General,
895 [No. 434.
Bengal, 75 subscribers, Madras, 15, Bombay, 10, at 20,000 rupees
each, making a capital of Rupees 20,00,000, equal to about
200,000L sterling. Tf the subscription is tilled up, it is likely
to turn out a very advantageous institution, not only to the
proprietors of it, but the public in general, by lowering the
present enormous discount on Company's paper, etc., and of
course making money more current in Calcutta ..."
[Holograph, i pp., 4/0.] " Tnos. Abraham."
[No. 435.]
[Lawrence Palk] to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton
Street.
1786, April 10th, Constance.—" My dear Father,--We
quitted last Thursday ^\ith great regret our abode at Neuchatei.
For my own part I resembled very much the knight of the sorrow-
ful countenance . . . Among the different people to whom I
am most particularly obliged for their kindnesses and attentions
there is no one who more deserves my thanks than Mr. Beaufoy
and his amiable wife . . . Their house was the resort of
the best company ; and by being often admitted to their
society I have in great part got rid of that shyness which you
have so often and so justly found fault with. I trust in time
I shall intirely shake off this failing.
" Our rout has been retarded by the breaking down of our
carriage twice. . . . Mr. D'lvernois having expressed a desire
to remain here one day to see his brothers in exile, whom
the Emperor has permitted to establish their manifactories in
this town, gives me this opportunity of writing to you. The
Colony succeeds even beyond their expectations, and it is to be
expected that this once flourishing city will soon regain its
ancient opulence and splendour. Their manifactories consist
ill watches and enamel; which the Emperor admits into his
territories subject to very small dutyes. The number of
Genevans who have voluntarily expatriated themselves amounts
at present to nearly 200 . . . The tyranny of the' aristocrats
ever since the late revolution, and the means they employ to
oppress the natives have rendered Geneva disgusting to its
inhabitants. . . . The Emperor does every thing in his power
to favour this rising colony : to many particulars he has given
places of abode for themselves and their families, and to all a
free exercise of their religion and the permission of forming
their own laws.
" Tomorrow we set out for Vienna through Munich, where
perhaps we may find a boat which will conduct us and our
equipage, by descending the Danube, to that capital of Austria.
... I do not yet give up all hopes of meeting with my
friend Lord Wycombe at "N^ienna. Perhaps he stays there to
accompany the Emperor to Chinon, where the Emperess of
Russia means shortly to hold her Coronation.
No. 435.] 396
" Your account of my sister's marriage gives me real pleasure.
Every person speaks well of Sir Bourchier,'i* and thinks that
he will make one of the best of husbands . . . You give me
but a very midling account of my poor Emeha . . .
" I forgot to send you in my last letter a copy of the will of a
Mr. Des Plans,'^' late Lieutenant Colonel in the service of the
East India Company. ITis sister, who has been particularly
kind to me, desired me to recommend her case to your notice,
that if you had any acquaintance at Bengal, you would be kind
enough to endeavour to procure her that justice which has been
so often denied her. You are no doubt acquainted with the
parties concerned. One of them, Mr. Bonjour,'^' enquired
very kindly after your health, and said that if I mentioned his
name to you, he was certain you would recollect him . . ."
[Signature removed].
[Holograph, 6^ pp.. Mo. Wax seal bearing crest and monogram.]
[Enclosures.]
No. 1. N.D. — Copy of the Will of Lieut.-Colonel Des Plans.
I, Jean Des Plans, Lieut.-Colonel in the service of the English
East India Company, declare this my last will to be as follows : —
I give to my friend Elizabeth, whom I took under my protection,
and who is in fact under the care of the Rev. Mr. Fabricius,'*'
Pags. 400, which sum is actually in the hands of Mr. Fabricius.
Besides this I give her Pags. 200. ' I bequeath the rest of my
property to my wife Maria Vietoriana Des Plans and my
daughters Henriette and Ursule Des Plans in equal portions.
In the event of the death of my wife and daugliters, my property
is to go to my sister Marie Elizabeth of Ncuchatel, Switzerland,
excepting Pags. 1,000, of which one half is to be added to the
little fortvme of my friend Elizabeth, and the other half is to go
to my wife's two sisters Michaela and Charlotte.
I appoint the Rev. Mr. Fabricius and Lieut.-Colonel Abraham
Bonjour my executors. I give to Mr. Fabricius my silver
table-service and my silver bowl and ladle. My horses I give
to Colonel Bonjour.
(Signed) Jean Des Plans, Lieut. -Colonel.
'[French, lyp., Svo.]
No. 2. N.D. — Unsigned Memorandum respecting the Will of
Lieut.-Colonel Des Plans.
Lieut.-Colonel Des Plans, who died at Madras in 1772, left
his fortune by his will, which is deposited in the India House,
London, to his wife and two daughters. Failing these, he named
'D Sir Bourcliier ^\'rey, 6th Baronet, married Anne Palk, 1 Itli Marcli, 1786.
Siie died in 17i)J.
(-' Colonel Des Plans, of the Company's European Infantry, was an Ensign ia
1758, and served as Captain in the Manila expedition.
<3) Colonel Abraham Bonjour. Vide No. 30, p. 50, note 2.
(4) The Rev. John Philip Fabricius was sent to India by the S.P.C.K. in 1740 as
a missionary. He officiated at Clive's marriage in 1753, and ultimately died at
Madras in 1791.
397 [No. 435.
his sister Marie Elizabeth, of Neuchatel, as heiress. Conse-
quently the property remained in the hands of the Rev. Mr.
Fabricius, who was named executor jointly with Lieut.-Colonel
Bonjour. The two children died in the same year as their
father. Their mother married a M. Pignon, and died in 1776
without obtaining possession of the property, of which she was
granted only the income. After her death Pignon claimed the
property as her heir, and in 1777 he brought a suit in the Mayor's
Court of Madras which was decided in his favour in 1780. The
executor appealed to Government against the decision^ and I
have heard nothing further of the matter.
[French, 2 pp., 8vo.]
[No. 436.]
[F. D'lvERNOis to Sir Robert Palk.]
1786, April 22nd, Vienna. — Now that we are 200 leagues from
Neuchatel I can, without alarming you, give the true reason
for my long-standing wish to see your son away from that
place. , . . Soon after his arrival there he was attracted by a
young lady of irreproachable character. Within a month the
budding preference became so marked as to cause me some
disquiet. I heard that the young lady's parents were building
hopes for the future on the attachment, although Palk had
spoken plainly of the impossibility of his marrying outside his
own coimtry. This disturbed me, and I begged you, Sir, to
prepare him for departure . . .
Now, Sir, you have the key to all Palk's delays. Perhaps
you may blame me for not keeping you informed, but I was
unwilUng to alarm you needlessly ... It is unnecessary
to say that the young lady was as much in love as he was. I
could not save Palk from final heart-rending interviews ; but
he made no promise except that he would pay another visit
to Neuchatel when he could. He was rather depressed during
the first few days of our journey, but soon brightened up. He
assured me yesterday that he had never been so happy as during
the last six months — and he might have added nor so prudent,
for his whole behaviour shows that he can unite the sensibility
of a young man with the reserve of a man of experience who
knows the value of honour too %vell to offer anything which
can be construed as a promise . . .
We left Neiichatel on the 5th instant after settling our bills
and drawing the amount of your last credit on Messrs. Pourtales.
When we started there remained onlyL5,676 6s., which we took
with us in cash and letters of credit. Our expenses were
certainly high, considering the habits of the people among whom
we lived. I several times discussed this point with your son.
Though it would be unfair to charge him with extravagance,
he is certainly inclined to be careless in business matters . . .
[The remainder of the letter is missing].
[Holograph, French, i pp., Mo.]
898
[No. 437.]
[Lawrence Palk] to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P.,
Bruton Street. ■
1786, May 21st, Vienna. Received 2nd June.—" My dear
Father, — The Court having accompanied the Emperor to
Luxembourg, Vienna is become quite empty and consequently
dull ; therefore I think the sooner I quit it the better . . . Mr.
D'lvernois seems to be of the same opinion with me, and only
waits to hear your intentions upon the subject, and the reeeit
of that letter relating to our tour which you informed me Lord
Lansdown was about to send him. The only houses into which
I am now admitted are those of Prince Kaunitz'" and the
Russian Ambassador's. The former is opened every evening,
and I must own that I have taken so great a liking to its owner,
who is reckoned the Oracle of Vienna, that I scarcely ever miss.
The only thing however to be gained by this constant attendance
is the ton and manners of a man of the world : as for politics,
you never hear talk of them, and I believe the Emperor has
enjoined silence upon every one of his Ministers. Your letter to
Madame la Comtesse de Thun was of particular use to me, as
she is the only lady who admits the English constantly into
her house . . . She was made choice of by the Emperor
to accompany him to Luxembourg."
I am very disturbed about Emelia's health and anxiously
await news.
[Signature removed.]
[P.S.] — " Monsr. D'lvernois . . . desires you will be kind
enough to beg Mr. Dumont, who is at present at Lord
Lansdown's, to send us without delay at Berlin the letter of
introduction for the Count de Goertz which he had the goodness
to promise us."
[Holograph, 3j pp.. 4to. Wax seal.]
[No. 438.]
[Lawrence Palk] to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P.,
Bruton Street.
1786, June Srd, Vienna. — " My dear Father, — Your obser-
vations are very just, and I really remained in Switzerland
longer than I ought to have done ... I informed you of
the loss of Mr. Cleveland's introductory letter to Madame de
Prangin . . . This is the sole reason that deprived me of
the pleasure of paying my compliments to her during my
residence at Neuchatel. Vienna has been for the last week
remarkably dull owing to the departure of most of the nobility
for their country seats, and particularly those who kept open
house for strangers ; during which time we have visited every
thing that is curious, which consist only in some very fine
(1) Prince Kaunitz, " shining star and guide of Austrian policies," represented
Austria at the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748, when he was 37 years of age.
399 [No. 438.
' -4
edifices, the Treasury and the Arsenal. The Treasury is
remarkably rich, and contains the jewels, etc., which have been
collected from every part of the dominions belonging to the
house of Austria ...
" The Arsenal is a very large pile of buildings, and contains
arms for upwards [of] 350,000 men. They show you the jacket
which Gustavus Adolphus wore when he was treacherously
murdered at the battle of Lutzen, Avhich was afterwards gained
by the Imperialists, and the chains w hich the Turcs had brought
with them to lead the then Emperour in captivity to
Constantinople . . ."
[Signature removed.]
[Holograph, 3| pp., ito. Wax seal]
[No. 439.]
F. D'lvERNOis to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P., Bruton
Street.
1786, June 10th, Feslau, near Vienna. — ^About a week ago we
told you of a little expedition we were about to make into
Hungary. Our three-day visit enabled us to form an idea of
the inexhaustible fertility of that kingdom. We are now staying
with the Countess de Friez, four leagues from Vienna. Your
son would like to prolong the visit, but an engagement to dine
with Prince Kaunitz obliges us to leave to-morrow. Our
departure from Vienna is fixed for the 16th. We should have
started even earlier but for the festival of Corpus Christi and
the installation of the Bishop of Liege,
Palk is as ready to leave Vienna as he was reluctant to say
good-bye to Neuchatel . . . Our business will end with
Paris now that he is familiar with its language. Though I have
no reason to be partial to Frenchmen, the more I travel
among continental people the more convinced I am that the
French are the most interesting for a young foreigner to culti-
vate. The advantages and dangers of the capital depend on
the society with which he mixes, and ... it would be well
for you to provide us with some good letters of introduction.
I hope that Madame de Friez will give us a letter to the
Austrian Ambassador at Berlin. This, with the one I expect
from my friend Dumont to Count de Goertz, will suffice us for
that capital. We expect to be there by the end of the month,
halting only at Dresden and Prague. Through the Chevalier
Keith'i) your son has just drawn on you for £250 sterling in
bills of exchange.
[Signature removed].
[Holograph, French, 3| pp., 4to. Wax seal with monogram].
(1) Vide No, 444, j>. 403, note 1.
400
[No. 440.]
Lawrence Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, June 26th, Dresden. Received 19th July. " My dear
Father, — My last letter . . . made you acquainted with
my intended tour through a small but interesting part of
Hungary in company with a very agreable party of my English
friends. After having travelled for the space of about ten
German miles through a beautiful and well cultivated country
we arrived at Esterhazi, the seat of the Prince of that name.
The flattering accounts I had heard of it from every quarter
made me anxious to be myself a spectator of its beauties. I am
sorry to say, however, my expectations were very much dis-
appointed. The Palais, though large, contains nothing which
deserves the title of real magnificence, and out of nearly two
hundred rooms there are only two that are above the usual size.
The gardens, on the contrary, are in general very prettily laid
out and pleasantly interspersed with grottos, hermitages,
temples, etc., etc. One building in particular (which is called
the Belvidere) attracted our notice not only for its elegance
-and simplicity but also for its novelty, being entirely different
from the German taste, who admires nothing but what is entirely
covered with gilding and awkward ornaments . . . The
present Prince has continually about his person a guard of two
hundred men collected from amongst his tenants, dressed in
magnificent uniforms, and as many more inhabit the other
country seats. Two companies of players, the one Italian, the
other German, perform alternately in a new and very beautiful
theatre . . . Every stranger has the permission to enter,
even without having been presented to the Prince, who very
seldom shows himself and lives here quite a retired life . . .
" From Esterhazi we proceeded as far as Presburg, the capital
of Hungary, a very ugly, ill-built town situated upon the
Danube, over which you pass by a flying bridge. The town,
since the Duke of Saxe Teschen has removed his residence to
Brussels, has fallen into decay. The castle is a very large and
rather beautiful building inhabited by nearly six hundred young
men, all of the country, who are there bred up for the church.
They received us very politely and showed us every curiosity they
possessed. We saw the window from which the late Empress
Queen'i) addressed the people in a most pathetic speech, holding
in her arms the present Emperour,'^) then a child of scarcely a
year old, imploring their assistance to extricate her from those
calamities which her numerous enemies heaped upon her.
Her faithful Hungarians, softened by this spectacle, swore to
sacrifize the last drop of their blood in her and her son's defence ;
but little did they think at that time that the child would one
day prove their greatest oppressor, and make slaves of those
(1) Maria Theresa, widow of Francis I.
(2) Joseph II. (1765—1790).
401 [No. 440.
people, to whom he not only owed his life but his crown, by
overthrowing their rights and liberties, which he had religiously
promised to maintain.
"We talk of setting off tomorrow or the day after for Berlin
through Leipsig. . . . You are now thinking, I suppose, of
going into Devonshire, the Parliament being nearlv at an
end. ..." . '
" Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 4 pp., Uo.]
[No. 441.]
Messrs. Pelling & de Fries & Co. to Sir Robert Palk, BarL,
Bruton Street, London.
1786, June 26th, Fort St. George. — " This serves chiefly to
inform that we have lately received two dividends on account
of the Nabob's old consolidated debt. The bond to General
Lawrence amounted ... to Pagodas 5,782 25/. 16c. . . . The
Nabob has kept up his payments in a surprising manner,
having compleated them before the kists became due. . . .
If the present regulation for discharging the Nabob's debt be
continued unaltered, the old debt will be entirely paid off in
less than three years.
" We are in perfect tranquillity. Tippoo and the Marattas are
fighting out their quarrels amongst themselves. The Nizam
took the field with the Marattas, but soon returned to his
own capital of Hyderabad.
" Your nephew Tom is doing very well at Trichinopoly . . .
We hope you have recommended him to Sir Archibald Campbell,
as it will always have due weight. The higher a person rises in
the service, the more necessary it is that he should have interest
with those in power.
" The Company's credit is greatly restored since the orders
sent out by the Court of Directors to grant bills on them in
discharge for Company's bonds and other papers, although
the Supreme Council has not determined the exchange of bills
for this Presidency."
" Pelling & de Fries & Co."
[2 pp., Uo. Wax seal with monogram.]
[No. 442.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, July 2nd, Trichinapoly. — I send you a first Bill of
Exchange for 2,062^. 10a., payable six months after sight.
My remittances to you to this date have aggregated 13,724^ \0s.
This sum T hope to increase to 20,000Z. through the supercargoes
of Canton. As soon as the whole is realized, I propose to follow
it home.
" Mrs. Palk is exceedingly desirous of seeing her unknown
A A
No. 442.] 402
-relations, and so am I of her seeing England before it be too late
for her to benefit any thing by the change . . .
" Sir A. Campbell arrived in good time, and promises to hiake
a very good Governor ; so the general voice says. Boards of
Commerce and Revenue are established, and the Army encreased
And brigaded . . . The Morattoes are still at war with Tippoo,
but not carried on with that vigour which it is our interest
to wi&h should be. The former show some degree of determina-
tion to carry their point by keeping south of the Kistnah, and
Tippoo by negotiation is "trying to gain his. The French, as
well as ourselves, are lookers on. Pondicherry is still an open
townj except a barrier which has been thrown up around it, and
seems calculated for a defence against cavalry only. . . ."
" Tho. Palk."
[Holograph, 2^ pp., large 4to.]
[No. 443.]
The Rev. J. Bradford to [Sir Robert Palk.]
1786, July 4th, Ideford. — " My second son, just turned of
sixteen, has been educated chiefly at Mr. Crawford's Academy
at Newington. He understands French and all sorts of accounts,
writes an exceeding good hand, and is, I flatter myself, perfectly
free from vice, and of a compilable, steady, sober disposition ...
" I had at first thoughts of putting him into trade, but find
upon enquiry that the premiums they expect in any reputable
shop are not less than four or five hundred pounds. This is so
far beyond my finances . . . that I must decline all thoughts
of it, and am sorry to be under the necessity of being trouble-
some to my friends. If, my dear Sir, you would oblige me so
far as to put me in a method of getting the lad a clerkship in
any public office or reputable banking house, ... I would
willingly advance 200L if required, and think myself under the
greatest obligation to you.
" I beg leave to congratulate you and Lady Palk on the
marriage of your daughter. I had lately the pleasure of meeting
Sir Bou[r]chier Wrey at Star Cross, when he told me Miss Palk
was much recovered, which we are most sincerely glad to
hear. . . ."
" J. Bradford."
[Holograph, 2^ pp., 4to.J
[No. 444.]
Lawrence Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P., Bruton
Street.
1786, July 6th, Berlin.— Had your last letters to Vienna been
addressed to Leipzig, " we could have profited of Lord
Lansdown['s] kindness, and have been introduced to the Prince
Anhalt Dessau,'^) whose place we have visited and admired.
<1) Leopold of Anhalt-Dessau, " the Old Dessauer."
403 [No. 444.
It is really the best copy of an English park and garden I ever
beheld . . . There are few seats in England more beautiful
than Dessau.
" Nothing, I can assure you, made me regret Vienna more
than the Prince Kaunitz. He ever treated me with particular
attention and affabihty, and at the same time that I admire
him as being one of the greatest politicians and the best of men,
his politeness and kindnesses to me have gained him my
esteem ... Sir Robert Keithd' too merits the esteem of
every Enghshman, nor is there a minister upon the continent
who takes more pains ... to introduce his countrymen into
the best society.
" Tomorrow we intend to deliver our letters of recom-
mendation to Lord Dalrymple'2) and the Prince de Reuss,'^*
the Imperial Ambassador. The King of Prussia'** still continues
in a very alarming situation, and it is the general opinion that
he will not hve out tlie winter. . . . Our stay at this place will
be about a month, . . . but as we are informed the King
will not permit any strangers to pay their court to him, and
as most of the fashfijonable world have quitted the capital,
perhaps we shall remain here but half that time.
" Your accounts of my dear mother as well as of Emelia have
given me the greatest pleasure, and I trust her new physician
will soon operate a complete cure. ..."
" Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, B\ pp., Mo. Wax seal.]
[No. 445.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., Bruton Street.
1786, July 8th, Trichinapoly. — Encloses a first bill of exchange
for 1,031 Z. 5*.
[Holograph, \ p., 4to. Wax seal inscribed ' Thomas Palk '
in Persian characters.]
[No. 446.]
Lawrence Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P., Bruton
Street.
1786, July 10th, Berlin. — " Our stay at this place, I apprehend,
will be rather shorter than we originally intended, as Lord
Dalrymple informs us that most of the heau monde have retired
from this city, some to Potsdam, but most of them to their
country houses. . . . Tomorrow we are to be presented to the
Queen and some of the Princes. The King, not being entirely
<!' Sir Robert Murray Keith, British Ambassador since 1772 at Vienna, where
his father had formerly served in the same capacity.
(2) John, Lord Dabymple, afterwards Earl of Stair, British Ambassador [to
Prussia.
("' Every member of both branches of the Reuss family was called Henry, with
a distinctive but confusing numeral attached to the name.
(4) Frederick the Great.
No. 446.] 404
recovered from his late indisposition, does not as yet show
himself at Court, and remains at Potsdam with a chosen,
party of his Generals. People say here that he is pretty well,
as he gallops on horseback for two German miles ; but this
circumstance in my opinion proves better the strength and
health of his steed than of his own. ..."
" I hope Emeha's speedy recovery will soon permit you to
visit Haldon. . . . The late acquisition you have made will
certainly render it, if possible, more beautiful and more compact
than ever. The most earnest of my wishes is that you may
long live to admire its beauties. ..."
" Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 2f pp., Uo. Wax seal.]
[No. 447.]
Laweence Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P., Bruton
Street.
1786, July 21st, Berlin. Received 2nd August. — " At our
return from Potsdam last Wednesday, where we had been invited
to dine with the Prince of Prussia,'^' we received your last
favour of the 4th instant, inclosing a letter of credit, . . .
for which we return you our most sincere thanks, particularly
so as the money we took up at Vienna is now entirely
expended. . . .
" You say in your last kind letter, ' My inducement to send
my son abroad was to supply the want of study at home, to
teach him to be a good citizen, and that qui mores hominum
multorum vidit et urbes might make his own remarks, adopt the
good and avoid what was otherwise.' During my travels on
the Continent my time has been principally employed in reading
the histories of the several States I have passed through, in
acquainting myself with the different objects of commerce,
and of their different manner of government. These have
been my principal studies, and if I have not succeeded in my
attempts, the fault ought rather to be imputed to the badness
of my memory than to my want of application . . .
" Berlin is at present remarkably dull, most of its inhabitants
having retired to their country seats, or to Potsdam, where the
alarming indisposition of the King calls for their almost constant
attendance. It is generally feared that he will not survive the
winter. His legs are swelled in such a manner as to prevent
his walking without the assistance of his servants even from
one chamber to another. He has not, however, lost his accus-
tomed chearfulness, but dines every day in company with a
chosen party of his generals . . . Great expectations are formed
of the abilities of his successour, the Prince of Prussia, and the
generallity of people imagine that the kingdom will be in the
same flourishing condition during his administration as it has
(1) The Crown Prince, shortly to become Frederick William II.
405 [No. 447.
been during that of his uncle. Be this as it may, the death of
the present king cannot but cause great disturbance and be
sincerely felt in every part of the kingdom. The Emperour
has his eyes continually fixed on Silesia, keeps his troups in
readiness, and waits only for that event to attempt the conquest
of that province, which has been so unjustly ravished from him.
The Prussian army, is however, on a very good footing, com-
manded by excellent and verj'^ expert generals . . . But if the
Prince of Prussia does not, upon his coming to the throne,
augment the pay of his soldiers, and relax in some measure the
severity of their discipline, it is feared that nearly half his army
will desert upon the first breaking out of a war. The soldiers
complain very much, and honestly confess, even to their own
officers, that they only wait for a good opportunity to quit their
present masters.
" We intend setting off the day after tomorrow for Brunswic
and Hanover. After having been presented to the Duke of
York we shall proceed to Dusseldorf, from whence we shall
descend the Rhine to Wesel, where I hope to have the pleasure
of hearing from you. We expect to be there in about six weeks.
If you do not think your letters can arrive there by that time,
I shall be obliged to you to direct them to Amsterdam . . ."
" Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 3j pp., 4fo. Wax seal.]
[No. 448.]
F. D'lvERNOis to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, July 30th, Brunswick. Received 17th August. — We
arrived here yesterday, and have already been received by
the Duchess, sister of the King of England, with the greatest
affability . . . Your son felt that he deserved your little lecture
on economy, and was anxious to reduce his expenditure, which,
though considerable, could not be called extravagant. Part of
it was due to beneficence : in other cases he was duped by the
false prejudices which most young Enghshmen bring to the
Continent. But he is rapidly curing himself of them, and our
expenses are certainly less than at Neuchatel, where no display
was called for. Moreover, rapid travelling and brief halts,
such as we have had in Germany, involve increased cost. At
Vienna we spent nearly 250L in two months, but it was less
than Mr. Spencer's expenditure, and much below that of Mr.
Duntz, who got through lOOZ. in one m'onth all by himself.
Still, I am glad that you have read your son a homily, and I
shall be happy if you will say a further word on the subject
when we reach Paris, where opportunities of spending will
be both numerous and tempting. I shall send you a detailed
statement of account from Cassel, where we are to attend the
No, 448.] 406
ceremony, with which Lord Dalrymple is charged, of investing
the Landgrave of Hesse with the Garter.
"F. D'lVERNOIS."
[Holograph, French, 4 pp., Ato.]
[No. 449.]
The Rev. Samuel Badcock to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, August 1st, West Sandford. — " I have taken the hberty
of transmitting to you a paper, which, if it meets with your
approbation, I should be glad to see published in the Gentleman's
Magazine. I flatter myself that I have expressed myself at
the conclusion in a manner sufficiently delicate not to give you
offence. I wished to have given wider scope to my gratitude,
but was restrained by the sense of that very liberality to which
I found myself under such great obligations. If you approve
of this paper and will permit it, I will communicate to the Editor
some farther account of the MSS. which you have entrusted
with me. But I will not move a step without your permission.
" I had drawn up a catalogue, with some general account of
the contents of the several papers, before I had the honour of
writing to you an account of the progress I had made. Since
that I have heard of a very curious MS. in Mr. Coffin's library,'^'
entitled Hooker's Survey. I believe it is the only one now
existing, and I wish to procure a sight of it, that I may extract
from it whatever is curious to be added to your collection.
I doubt not but Mr. Coffin would very readily permit it if the
favour were asked him either by yourself or Sir John
Chichester . . ."
" Samuel Badcock."
[Holograph, 2 pp., flscp.]
[No. 450.J
Tho[ma]s Felling to Sir Robert PalK, Bt.
1786, August 2nd [Madras]. — Encloses duplicate of his letter
of the 18th March, 1786, and announces that the natural sons
of Mr. Barclay'^' and Colonel Kelly'^' have arrived in India
with commissions as ensign.
[Holograph, \p., 4to.]
[No. 451.]
F. D'lvERNOis to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, August 9th, Pyrmont, near Hanover. Received 23rd
August. — Since I wrote from Brunswick we have visited
Hanover. We were there presented to the Duke of York,
who honoured us with an invitation to dinner. I^eaving
(1) The library at Portledge, near Bideford.
(2) Robert Barclay. Vide No. 390, p. 364, note 3.
(3) Robert Kelly. Vide No. 78, p. 106, note 5.
407 [No. 4S1.
Hanover for Cassel, we made a circuit by Pyrmont, where the
German society of the vicinity had assembled to take advantage
of the mineral springs. We expected to meet here the ruling
Duke of Courland and his Duchess, whose acquaintance we had
made at the residence of the Crown Prince of Prussia. This is
the second day of our stay, and as we have no need of the cure,
thank heaven, we shall make for Cassel very shortly. That
place is not likely to offer attractions, as the Court is in retreat.
We shall go a little out of our way to visit Gottingen, get a
glimpse of its celebrated university, and be presented to the
young Princes, as General Grenville has been good enough to
give us a letter to their Governor.
From Cassel there are two routes to Holland open to us ; one
to Wesel through Westphalia, which is direct but devoid of
interest ; the other, double the distance but much more
attractive, by Frankfort and the Rhine. We shall probably
adopt the latter, as it will enable us to see Coblentz, Cologne,
Diisseldorf, etc. This route will take us a fortnight or more . . .
Allowing from two to three weeks to reach Wesel and two more
for passing through Holland, we ought to be at the end of our
travels by the middle of September. This is rather earlier
than you expected, and is the result of our having visited the
capitals at a period when the nobles were out of town. As I
believe that the cultivation of- good society rather than topo-
graphical knowledge is your chief aim for your son, there would
have been no advantage in prolonging our halts in Germany.
The question now is whether you wish us to establish our-
selves at once in Paris until next February, or whether we
should travel a little in France before settling down. As you
are aware. Sir, there is one essential difference between the
capitals of France and England. The English people can be
studied adequately in London ; but to know the French nation
it is not enough to reside in Paris. One must penetrate the
country . . . Meanwhile I suggest that you should procure
for us as many letters of recommendation as possible, for it is
chiefly on them that your son must rely for the connections he
will form in the capital. A letter to the Ambassador is of Httle
service by itself. . . .
"F. D'lVERNOIS."
P.S.— August 11th, Gottingen. We arrived here yesterday,
and have already been presented to the three young Princes,
who have asked us to supper this evening. We also met Sir
Isaac Heard,'" who told us the Cassel ceremony was over.
Apparently we have not lost much by our absence from it.
What we regret much more is that the letter which you entrusted
to him for us has not been dehvered. Sir Isaac handed it to
Lord Barnard,<2) who is taking it to Berlin, where he expects to
find us. Palk, though disappointed, is cheered by the good
(1) Sir Isaac Heard, Garter King of Arms.
(2) William Harry Vane, Viscount Barnard, son of the Earl of Darlington.
No, 461.] 408
account of your health which Sir Isaac gives. Your son has
had the pleasure of meeting several of his Oxford friends, who
all agree that he never looked better . . . By Sir Isaac Heard
I am sending you a copy of our accounts from the time we left
London. The balance of cash remaining on this date is Crowns
311-23-6, besides 100/. of the letter of credit of Sir R. Merries
and Co, . . .
[Holograph, French, 8 pp., 4to.]
[No. 452.]
Henry Vansittart & R[ichar]d ICennaway to [Sir
Robert Palk].
1786, August 13th, Calcutta. — " We are very glad your
brother and nephew have taken on them the debt of Lieut.
Welland to his brother. Our payment of it was a serious object
to young Welland's convenience. We believe Welland has a
proper sense of errors, and disposition to reform, which regulates
his present conduct ; but his embarrassments from the past we
believe are not small, and such as time and oeconomy only in
the present situation of this service can entirely remedy . . .
" Tom Palk's legacy being set off against his debt to the
estate ; 'i' as it is not only for the convenience of the estate but
agreeable to his wishes to receive the sum still intended him in
England, whither our attention is engaged in remitting the
property, -we reconmiend his being indulged with the payment
of it there."
We hope you duly received bills for a lakh of rupees, and
also those for our remittance of 8,859Z. We shall shortly send
the accounts of the estate.
" Henry Vansittart,
Rd. Kennaway."
[Autographs, 3^ pp.. Mo.]
[No. 453.]
Simeon Droz'^) to [General John Caillaud].
1786, August 19th, Arlington Street. — " I arrived in England
the 6th instant, and landed at Weymouth. From thence I
proceeded with my family to Bath, where I left Mrs. Droz very
poorly indeed, her nerves being much shook by the fatigues of
the voyage, and they were in a very indifferent state before.
I had the pleasure of seeing your sister, being well at Bath.
I arrived in town last Thursday night, and am comfortably
lodged for the present in the same house with John Boileau ..."
My chief object in writing is to ask you to use your influence
with Sir Robert Palk, with whom I am not acquainted. " The
case is this : — When I succeeded my late friend Mr. Palk in the
chiefship of Cossimbuzar, he proposed that I should take off his
hands some concerns in small Filatures or places for making silk,
(1) The estate of Robert Palk, juu.
(2) Vide No. 419, p. 384, note 2.
409 [No. 453.
which he possessed in the neighbourhood of the Factory ; and
in consequence I gave him at his request a bond for 9,000 Rs.,
bearing interest at 1 per cent, per annum, and payable in 3
years ; but I never received the said Filatures or any smallest
advantage from them whatever . . ." Mr. Palk promised to
return the bond, but forgot to do so, fell ill, and died on his way
home. Messrs. \'ansittart & Kennaway afterwards presented
the bond for payment. I explained the matter and, in return
for the original bond, gave a bond of indemnity to cover them in
case Sir Robert Palk and the other executors should insist on
payment. I now beg you to interest yourself with Sir Robert
on my behalf and secure the return of the bond of indemnity.
[Holograph, 4 pp., Mo.] " Simeon Droz."
[No. 454.]
Lawrence Palk to Sir Robert Palk, Bart., M.P.,
Bruton Street.
1786, August 21st, Wesel. Received 5th September. —
" AVe arrived here yesterday evening some moments after the
express which brought the account of the King of Prussia's
death on the 17th instant, and of the heri[di]tary Prince's
accession to the throne by the name of Frederick William the
2nd. This morning we were at the parade when the troups
comprising this garrison took the oath of fidelity and obedeance
to their new souvei-ain. Notwithstanding the trouble and
confusion this event cannot fail of producing in every part of the
Prussian territories, it seems here to be the general opinion that
the Emperour, actually in Transilvania and far removed from
the frontiers of Silesia, will not strike a blow in attempting to
regain this part of the possessions anciently belonging to his
family . . .
" I this naoment receive your kind letter of the 11th inst. . . .
Your accounts of my dear mother's health . . . have given
me the greatest uneasiness, and make me accept with the
sincerest acknowledgements your permission to return to England
as soon as possible. Had you not desired me to continue my
tour through Holland, I might perhaps have been the avant-
coureur of this letter. The alarming state of my poor Emelia's
health, joined to th[at] of my dear mother, makes me
uncom[mon] anxious to join my endeavours to yours in searching
a means to render them every consolation in my power.
" Mr. D'lvernois, whom I have consulted with regard to our
proposed tour through Holland, is of opinion it will not take up
more than three weeks, at the end of which time I hope to add
to the pleasure of embracing that of assuring my dear father
bv word of mouth how truly and sincerely I am his most dutiful
and affectionate son,
"Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 3^ pp., Uo. Wax seal.]
410
[No. 455.]
Henry Vansittart jun., to Sir Robert Palk.
1786, August 26th, Calcutta. Received — March, 1787. —
" I am very much obliged to you for an intimation contained
in one of your letters to Kennaway and myself that you would
get us recommended to Lord Cornwall] s. This I believe will
be the last instance of assistance which I shall require from you
after the manj^ which I have received, both in fixing me upon
this establishment and in promoting my successful progress
through this service. Every consideration inclines me to go
home next year. I gain very little more than a subsistence,
and my situation is rendered every year more disagreable by the
interference of the Government here, the Court of Directors
and Parliament . . .
" We expect Lord Cornwallis in a fortnight, and the business
of Government is in suspence untill his arrival. His appointment
may be productive of much good or much harm, and it will not
be in the power of the best intentions to prevent the latter,
either if his Lordship acts without advice or if he is influenced
by bad . . .
" I think we shall be able completely to close our administra-
tion of your nephew's estate this year . . ."
" Henry Vansittart."
[Autograph, 3^ pp., 4to. Duplicate.]
[No. 456.]
Messrs. Pelling & de Fries to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, August 29th, Fort St. George.—" The Nabob has
regularly compleated, even by anticipation, the payment of his
annual subsidy of sixteen lacks. The Government has not
been quite so regular in making the dividends to his creditors,
some part being still unpaid. We shall . . . remit you . . .
whatever dividends we may receive on account of the Nabob's
bond to General Lawrence, and for your concern under the late
Mr. Morse. The executors of Goodlad have not made any
further payment. We do not fail to remind them from time
to time, but until money becomes more plenty in the Settlement
punctuality will not be observed in dealings.
"Lord Cornwallis arrived here on the. 22nd instant after a
very short passage, and is to leave this for Bengal the 1st of next
month. People's mind[s] are made easy for the repeal of the
obnoxious part of Mr. Pitt's India Bill. We are peaceable
throughout all our possessions in India. Tippoo, the Marattas
and Nizam [are] fighting out their own battles. This last has
lost the whole of the Adoni country to Tippoo. The rains at
present on that side prevent operations in the field, but it is
hkely to take place with more vigour the next spring."
" Pelling & de Feies."
[2 pp., 4to. Duplicate.]
411
[No, 457.]
Tho[mas] Palk to Sir Robert Palk.
1786, September 7th, Trich[inopol]y. — " I am happy that so
handsome an addition has been made to my poor brother's
legacies to my sisters, and thankful for the cancelling of my debt
to him, which in that event has been, I hope, . . . carried to
my credit in England . . . When all the bills which I have
transmitted to yovi are paid, with the legacy, their amount will
be 18,976/. [?18,796Z.] . . .
" You may, my dear Sir, very naturally conclude that I am
most anxious to see those dear friends at home once more, and
' that I am straining every nerve to effect it, but alas ! fortunes
are not to be made so rapidly now as before the war. People
in my situation have never made them by their employs, but
by loans of money to the country at, as you know, an high
interest ; but it is no longer safe to do it on any terms ; and
the Nabob, since the restitution of the Assignment, has not
practised that good old custom. A most cordial understanding
exists at present between me and his Highness, and it shall not
be my fault shoiild it not continue . . .
" My brother,'!' j ggg^ jg purchasing away. I hope you will
be able to do something of the same sort for me soon. I forgot
to tell you, after enumerating the sums I had remitted, that I
have Company's paper for Pagodas 60,000, . . . for which I
have the bond of the Bengal Government ; so that, all things
considered, vay having been 12 years without any employ, and
finding myself much in debt on my coming here, you will not
think I have been idle. I hope, however, that by the end of '87
I shall find myself in verj^ comfortable circumstances, and that
the January following will enable me to leave India . . .
" I am happy to find Tom is well and improving. When
you think him of age to be put to a school at or near London, I
shall be much pleased. In January next we intend to send
Kitty and Bob by Mrs. Lang, Mrs. Palk's sister ; the former
in particular to be presented to Lady Palk. She is a sweet
child, and will I doubt not be a great favorite. Neither of
them as yet have had the smallpox. They will go on the
Manship, Capt. Gregory . . ."
[Holograph, 7^ pp., Mo.] " Tho. Palk."
[No. 458.]
Lawrence Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, September 8th, La Haye. — " Wc arrived here yesterday
in company with the Count de Bourghaus and his family, who
were kind enough to offer us a place in their boat from Amster-
dam. At my arrival I had the pleasure of receiving the letters
you had entrusted to the care of Sir Isaac Heard, amongst
(1) Walter Palk, jun.
No. 458.] 412
which I found a recommendatory one to Sir James Harris.'^'
I do not suppose it will be of any great use to me, being informed
our Ambassador is at present entirely occupied with the Prince
of Orange's affairs, which seem to grow every day worse and.
worse, insomuch that a civil war appears now to be almost
inevitable. The States of Holland, who assembled this morning,
have come to a resolution almost unanimous, not only to
divest him of all his employments, but also of his Statholderat.
. . . The King of Prussia has sent one of his principal Ministers,
the Count de Gortz (late envoy to the Court of Petersbourg) to
endeavour to accomplish a reconciliation between the Prince
of Orange and the States ; but they seem to be so exasperated
against [him] that it is feared this negotiation will turn out
unsuccessful.
" I cannot conceive how the Stadholder, united solely with
the province of Gueldre, can resist the united efforts of the
remaining six, whose troups are at least five [times] as numerous
as those at present imder his command, unless his brother in law
the King of Prussia makes a diversion in his favour, which in
the present position of affairs appears to be very improbable.
" In addition to this piece of news we have received advice
of the declaration of war between Russia and the Turks, and
that we have sold Gibraltar to the Empress'^' for the sum of
2,000,000 pounds sterling. I am to[o] good an Englishman
not to wish this piece of news to be authentic, as it has been
sufficiently proved that this fortress is of no real use to us, but
on the contrary puts us to a much greater expence than we can
at present afford.
" We have been thus far very much delighted with our tour
through Holland. At our entrance into this country every
thing announced to us the riches and general ease of its inhabi-
tants, and this spectacle was greatly heigthened by the idea of
the marks of misery and oppression we had left behind us in
the deserts of Westphalia. But what particularly attracted
our attention was the astonishing neatness and cleanliness of
all the houses both great and small ... I cannot give any idea
of the societies, as, not having any letters of recommendation
for Amsterdam or any other town through which I have passed,
I was not admitted amongst them. The Dutch seem to me to
be in general a very good kind of people in their own wa\- , who
understand speculation as well, if not much better than their
neighbours.
" Your letter to Mr. D'lvernois, which we yesterday received,
gives me no account of Emelia,<^* though it makes me happy
in the receit of [news of] the better health of my dear mother.
We intend setting off in three or four days for Brussels, and on
d' Sir James Harris, afterwards Earl oi Malmesbury, was British Minister at the
Hague.
(2) Catherine II. of Russia.
(3) The news of Bmelia Palk's death on the lltli August was doubtless withheld
intentionally.
413 [No. 458.
our way we shall pass through Rotterdam and Breda. We
expect to arrive at Brussels in about a fortnight, when I flatter
myself I shall have the pleasure of hearing from you . . ."
" Lawrence Palk."
[Holograph, 4: pp., Mo.]
[No, 459.]
Thomas Abraham to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, September 18th, Calcutta. — " It is reported that Mr.
Stables intends going home this season on one of the Indiamen.
Mr. Macpherson will also go probably, in consequence of having
lost his appointment, and having such little influence from his
being only a Member of Council. The Governor, I suppose,
will do anything now even without the Council. It is rather
dangerous now, I believe, to say much about pubHc affairs in
consequence of the late orders from home, which I shall
accordingly take care to pay attention to ; indeed there is very
little to say if one wished it.
" General Lang intends embarking for Europe this season
in an Indiaman from hence that is to call at Madras. Mr.
Jackson, son of the musician at Exeter I believe, is gone from
Madras to China . . . and thence to England." I have not
yet met Ensign Preston.'" He called on me once in Calcutta,
but I missed him, and he left directly afterwards with Colonel
Pearse's detachment. Ensign Preston'^) of the Coast estabhsh-
ment was here some time ago. He proposed, after returning to
Trichinopoly, to proceed to England to bring out his wife and
children. I thank you for recommending me to Lord Cornwallis
and Mr. Shore, and congratulate you on Miss Palk's marriage.
" Thomas Abraham."
[Holograph, 4 pp., ito.]
[No. 460.]
Chocapah to the Honble. Sir Robert Palk, Baronet.
1786, September 30th, Madrass.— " Sir Archibald Campbell
is arrived here the 6th April last . . .According to the Company's
order a Board of Revenue and a Board of Trade were appointed,
, . . the former consisting of Mr. Davidson as President, and
Messrs. Oakeley, Moubray*^* and Haliburton**' members ; the
latter consisting of Mr. Casamaijor as President, and Messrs.
HoUond,*^' Hamilton and John Balfour"" members ; and the
(1) Ensign Henry Preston, Bengal Army, Vide No. 343, p. 336, note 1.
(2) Ensign William Preston, Madras Army. Vide No. 398, p. 370, note 1.
(3) George Moubray came to India in 1771 as a Senior Merchant with the fixed
appointment of Accountant. He retired in 1792.
(*) David Haliburton, a Madras civil servant of 1770, was Persian Translator and
Interpreter.
(5) Edward John Hollond, who entered the service in 1769, was eventually,
provisional Governor for a week in succession to his brother John Hollond.
(6) William Hamilton and John Balfour were Madras civil servants of 1786 and
1772, respectively.
No. 460.] 414
Governor is to take his seat in both these Departments whenever
he pleases . . .
" Earl of Cornwallis arrived here with a commission for the
Government of Bengali, and with a new one for Sir Archibald
Campbell " as Commander-in-Chief of the Coast army. Lord
Cornwallis sailed for Bengal on the 31st August.
" Hyder's son Tippoo directed his war in another part of the
world. He declared against the Nizam and Marattas, and has
marched with a large army against Adoni, the capital of the
late Basalat Jing. He invaded the fort, but was repulsed with
great loss by Bassalat Jing's son, who was in the fort with his
family. The Nizam, hearing of Tippoo's great army, dispatched
a large force under the command of his brother Mokar Ally,
assisted with a body of the Marattas horse, who were safely
arrived into the fort of Adoni. But unfortunately for the Nizam
the conductor of this large army came in such haste that he had
not taken the usual precaution to bring provision sufficient for
his army as well as [to] supply those in the fort, and exhausted
the little provision that was in the fort in a few days after their
arrival. When they found it difficult to get ^Jrovision into the
fort on account of Tippoo's being on the frontiers of it, they
thought it proper to evacuate the fort of Adoni, and marched
with all their forces to the fort of Royachoor ; and Tippoo
immediately entered into the fort of Adoni . . . Tippoo, after
this success, intends to march against Conoul, which if not
timely succoured by the Nizam will, it is thought, fall into his
hands . . .
" Sir John Bailing will, I thinlc, sail for England soon according
to the orders of the Court of Directors. He is very sorry at
the death of his son Lieut. Dalling, who died here the middle of
this month. The Committee of Circuit, having examined the
Circars under Vizagapatam, . . . are now in the Masulipatam
district ..."
" Chocapah."
[Autograph, ipp.tMo.]
[No. 461.]
Messrs. Felling & de Fries to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, October 14th, Fort St. George.—" Although the Nabob
paid very punctually his stipulated sum of sixteen lacks for last
year, this Government has not compleated the payment due
for the creditors' share. We are promised a dividend soon . . .
The Nabob was lately very ill, but he is now in a fair way of
recovery, and continues his payments regularly. He sent us
word by his Braminy to present his compliments to you his old
friend.
" Lord Cornwallis took possession of his Government on the
12th September. Mr. Shore was unwell : the damp climate of
Bengal will be unfavourable to his asthmatick complaint.
415 [No. 461.
" Tippoo and the Marattas are gone into winter quarters, to
recommence their operations after the rains.
" The rate of bills granted by the Presidencies in India on
the Company in liquidation of their debt is so low — 7 shillings
per pagoda for this place — that we don't imagine much of their
debt will be transferred to Europe."
" Felling & de Fries."
[1 p., Mo.]
[No. 462.]
The Rev. S[amuel] Badcock to Sib Robert Palk, Bart.,
Bruton Street.
1786, October 19th, South Molton.— " I have frequently
made enquiries after the health of Lady Palk, but the accounts
I received were so very unfavourable that I was fearful of
writing to you lest I should intrude on you ... I most sincerely
sympathize with you in the affliction you have lately gone
through ...
" Since my last I have received Hooker's Account of Devon
from Mr. Coffin's library. What is valuable shall be transcribed.
I expect Westcote's Description''^'' . . . that a copy of it may
[be] procured for your collection. A very large folio of arms
and genealogies is the only remaining MS. in Portlege'^) Library
that respects the County.
" In Fuller's Worthies, under the article of Devonshire,
mention is made of a manuscript relating to the Coimty written
by ' Northcote, Baronet.' Fuller refers to it several times,
and even gives some extracts from it. Bishop Nicholson,'^)
however, in his Histarical Library supposes that Fuller had
confounded Northcote with Westcote, and then says in a pun-
ning way that ' the author was often at a greater distance from
truth than North and West.' Yet Mr. Gough seems positive
that Fuller made no mistake, and says that the late Sir Henry
Northcote'*' (who practised physic and Uved in the parish of
Tawstock) had the manuscript in his possession that Fuller
quotes, and intended to have published it with considerable
enlargements. He further says that the MS. was afterwards
in the possession of Mr. Hesket. I have desired Mr. Chichester
of Hall to ask his relation Sir Stafford Northcote if he possesses
any MSS. that may be worth transcribing relating to the County.
The Mr. Heskett mentioned by Gough is supposed ... to have
been the same gentleman who some years since possessed
Aldiscot near Torrington, now Mr. Rowe's estate. What
became of his papers I could never learn.
" I will take care to have the MSS. belonging to your collection
bound in the way you have mentioned, and will superintend
the business that no mistakes may be made . . .
(1) Thomas Westcote published a View of Devonshire in 1630.
(2) Portledge, near Bideford, the seat of the Pine-Coffin family.
(3) William Nicolson, Bishop of Carlisle.
(*) Sir Henry Northcote, Bt., M.D., (1655—1730).
No. 462.] 416
" I have lately spent a fortnight at Colonel Simcoe's and at
other places in the neighbourhood of Exeter ; and then took
the opportunity of writing to my uncle to inform him that I had
at last come to a resolution to quit my office among the Dissenters.
I explained my reasons, and then left him to judge whether I
had not taken a right step. It was the step that my inclination,
my judgment and my conscience equally concurred to dictate.
. . . The risque I ran with my uncle I was well aware of, but I
was resolved to hazard it . . .
" The Bishop hath offered me ordination, and was so obliging
as to say that he considei-ed me as a great acquisition • • • I ^old
the Bishop that ordination was too serious a business to be
determined on in haste . . . but it was probable that I should
avail myself of his Lordship's offer next summer. I have no
ambition of preferment. A veri/ moderate competency is all
I wish, and my prospects do not exceed a hundred a year.
If I could secure that, I shall be perfectly resigned to the loss
of my uncle's favour and fortune ..."
" S. Badcock."
" P.S. — I am much with Sir John Chichester, who often,
very often, speaks of you and Lady Palk with great friendship
and esteem. I went to call on Sir Bourchier Wrey this week,
but he and I;ady Wrey were gone to Barley. We wished much
to know how Lady Palk was ; and Sir John (whom I shall see
this afternoon) will rejoyce to hear that any favourable circum-
stance appears in her Ladyship's complaint."
[Holograph, 4 pp. flscp. and \ p. Mo.]
[No. 463.]
G. Browne to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, November 8th. — " Mr. Ward's^) last letters informed
me that he had directed his agent at Calcutta to remitt money
to engrave the Views of Hindoo Buildings, and I have in con-
sequence been in daily expectation of it. None is yet received.
So soon as I find myself in cash to carry the work into execution
I shall give notice in the papers."
" G. Browne."
[Holograph, 1 p., Uo.]
[No. 464.]
Tho[ma]s Abraham to [Sir Robert Palk].
1786, November 12th, Calcutta. — " It is with extreme concern
that I communicate to you the melancholy event since nriy last
of the death of my poor friend Mr. Van Sittart, universally
beloved, lamented and regretted, of which, as you will have no
doubt very particular information, I shall quit the painful and
(1) Colonel Fraucis Swain Ward. Vide No. 396, p. 369, note 1.
417 [No. 464,
disagreeable further relation by only observing the bad effects
of too long a stay in this country, both in this and another
recent instance . . .
" The bill I drew on my father for 150Z. I hope has been
honoured. I shall use my utmost endeavours to prevent any
necessity for drawing again. I can live upon my present salary
without running into any debt, which I shall always studiously
take care to avoid : it hangs like a millstone about the neck of
a young man. now certainly when there is so bad a prospect of
ever being able to repay it. My salary has been reduced so
much lately that I should imagine it will be cut no more, or
that I may be able to get some little en crease to it . . ."
[Holograph, 3| pp.. Uo.] " Thos. Abraham."
[No. 465.]
Tho[mas] Palk to [Sir Robert Palk].
[17]86, November 14th, Trichinapoly. — "gThese few lines
will be conveyed by the Swallow packet. By the Manship,
which will sail from Madras about the 15th of next month, I
shall have the pleasure to write you again. General Lang and
family will go on this ship, and will have my children Kitty and
Bob under their care. We are about setting off for Madras for
that purpose. I shall write to Ashburton by that conveyance,
though I have not heard from thence this year . . ."
{Holograph, 2j pp., 4to.] " Tho. Palk."
[No. 466.]
Adrian de Fries'^' to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, November 20th, Fort St. George. — On the 16th instant
I sent you a First Bill of Exchange for 2,000i. on account of
Mr. Thomas Palk of Trichinopoly. I now enclose a First of
Exchange drawn by the Governor and Council of Tranquebar
on the Royal College of Economy and Commerce at Copenhagen
for l,856i. 5s., payable to your order for credit to Mr. Palk.
[Autograph, 1 p., Uo.] " Adrian de Fries."
[No. 467,]
Messrs. Pelling & de Fries to Sir Robert Palk.
1786, December 2nd, Fort St. George. — " The creditors of
the Nabob have not received their last dividend from the
Government yet to compleat their share of the annual payment
of 16 lacks, which was fully paid by the Nabob in July last.
The Company having sent out instructions to the Governor and
(1) The firm of Pelling & de Fries bore for a time the designation Adrian &
John de Fries.
BB
No. 467.] 418
Council regarding the New Cavalry Loan'^* to make provision
"with the Nabob for the liquidation of it, the Governor and
Council have thought proper to join this loan to the three former
classes of creditors ; which being looked upon as an innovation,
and contrary to the arrangement made with the Court of
Directors under the sanction of Parliament, the Committee df
Creditors have strongly remonstrated against it.
" We beg leave to inclose you copys of two letters*^) written
oh this occasion, and hope from the justice of the Board of
Control that the creditors will have satisfaction to their just
complaint . . . We are convinced of your good inclination to
render service to the poor creditors and for promoting the
welfare of this Settlement, and shall therefore take the liberty
to recommend their cause to your good offices . . .
"We have nothing new. The war between the Maratta
and Tippoo continue[s] without any extraordinary occurrence.
I/ord Cornwallis gives universal satisfaction at Bengal."
[2 pp., Mo.] " Felling & de Fries."
[Enclosure]. — Copy of letter dated Fort St. George, 24th
November, 1786, from the Committee of the Three Classes of
the Nawab's creditors to the Honble. Major General Sir
Archibald Campbell, K.B., President and Governor in Council,
Fort St. George.
With reference to our letter of the 21st instant, and to Mr.
Secretary Chamier's reply intimating that Government have
resolved to carry out the Court's orders " by placing the debts
of Colonel Sir Henry Cosby,'^) Lieut. -Colonel Dugald Campbell<*>
and Mr. Doll " in the same category as the creditors in the
Cavalry Loan, we ask for reconsideration of this decision on
the ground that it prejudices our rights and alienates in favour
of others a public negotiable fund which is the property of our
constituents.
(Signed) " John Turing, James Taylor,
Edward Hollond, Paul Benfield,
George Moubray."
[2f pp., flscp.]
(1) The Cavalry Loan of 1769 was of Pags. 4,00,000 advanced by James Taylor,
Andrew Majendie and James Gall for the satisfaction of arrears of pay to the Nawab's
troops.
(2) One letter only has been traced.
(3) Captain Henry Augustus Cosby conlmanded a battalion of native infantry
in the first Mysore War, 1767-69. In 1774 he became Adjutant General of the
Madras Army with the rank of Lieut.-Colonel, and three years later conducted a
force against the Poligars of Chittoor. He afterwards served in the second Mysore
war, and died in 1787.
(*) Dugald Campbell served in 1771 as a lieutenant in the 1st Madras Cavalry,
and two years later he commanded the regiment at the siege of Tanjore. Colonel
Campbell was afterwards in command of the four regiments of native cavalry which
mutinied at Arnee in 1784. He must not be contused with Lieut. Dugald
Campbell, who accompanied KiUpatrick in 1756 to Bengal, where he was killed
in the same year.
419
[No. 468.]
Ensign Will[iaJm Preston to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.,
London.
1786, December I9th, Trichinopoly.— " I did myself the
pleasure of writing to you from Calcutta in July last. Nothing
material has happened since but the death of Mr. Vansittart,
whose loss is lamented by all who had the honor of his acquain-
tance. I returned here in October, and am . . . restored to the
effective list, as I have declined all thoughts of visiting Europe
till Mr. Palk returns. He tells me it will be in another year.
General Lang has deferred going home this season. It's a dis-
appointment to Mr. and Mrs. Palk not being able to send their
children. We were on our way to Madras and within eighty
miles, when Mrs. P. received intelligence from the General that'
he had changed his mind.
" The present Government renders our situation very satis-
factory. Tippoo Saib and the Mahrattoes have lately had
desperate actions, which terminated in favor of the latter . . ."
[Holograph, IJ p., 4-to.] " Willm. Preston."
[No. 469.]
Messrs. Felling & de Fries to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1786, December 23rd, Fort St. George. — " At last the Govern-
ment has made, on the 1.5th instant, the dividend to the Nabob's
creditors to compleat the first annual payment on the present
arrangement ; and even this was made one half in money and
one half in bills on Mazulipatam, which may occasion us some
small loss . . . We inclose you a statement of General
Lawrence's bond with the Nabob to 1st January, 1785 . . ."
We have pressed Messrs. Petrie and De Souza for a settlement
of Goodlad's estate. They say that the bond creditors will
shortly be paid in full, and that the book creditors will receive
60 per cent, of their claims. We enclose you a first bill of
exchange for 1,000Z., being Pags. 2,500 at 8s. per pagoda, which
is a very favourable rate.
" Publick affairs are in a good train. We are in peace with
all the country Powers. The administration of Lord Cornwallis
is acceptable to all Bengal, and must greatly recover the
Company's credit by his great savings and good management.
The Marattas and Tippoo continue at war, but nothing
remarkable done on either side."
[2 pp., Uo.] " Pelling & DE Fries, &c."
[No. 470.]
The Rev. Samuel Badcock to Sir Robert Palk, Bart.
1787, March 1st, South Molton. — " I was sorely disappointed
imnrssing the Opportunity of seeing you o' Tuesday, as I pro-
posed and most earnestly wished, at Sir John Chichester's, but
No. 470.] 420
a violent attack of the head-ach (my old and unconquerable
enemy !) confined me all day to my bed at Hall . . ,
" I . . . beg that when you return to London you will be so
obliging as to second my application to Sir George Yonge for
any little thing that he may have it in his power to procure
for me, as the time approaches when I wish to get orders, and I
have no prospect from any other quarter. I have stated to
Sir George my situation ; and as I have the History of the
County greatly at heart, and will exert myself to complete it
to the best of my power so as to make it a monument for futurity,
I only want a present support to sit down without care ; and a
little, a very little, will suffice. I shall then have leisure to
prosecute my engagement with you in this great and arduous
undertaking ...
" And as to yourself — my recompense hath exceeded not
only my expectation btit my desert."
" Sam. Badcock."
" P.S. — I will beg the favour of you to direct the enclosed
to Mr. Beeke at Oxford^) . . ."
[Holograph, 3 pp., large Uo.]
(1) Probably the Bev. Henry Beeke, Vicar of St. Mary the Virgin, Oxford, from
1782.
421
INDEX.
Abdalee, The. 5ee Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Abdalis, The, 281, 281 n2.
Abdallah, The. See Ahmad Shah Abdah.
Abdallahs, The. See Abdalis, The.
Abercrombie, Captain, 359.
Abington, Major William, H.
Abraham, Prances, iv, 357 n2.
Abraham, Robert, 245, 245 n2, 357 n2.
Abraham, Thomas ; arrives in India,
Ivi, 359, 359 n2 ; criticizes Mao-
pheraon, bd, 388, 394 ; note on,
357 m2 ; letters from, 373, 383, 387,
394, 413, 416; commended, 379,
379 nl; salary of, 383, 417 ; men-
tioned, V, Iv, 357, 361, 367.
Account of Devon, Hooker's, 415.
Account of the War in India, Cambridge's,
X.
Achin, Achem, Atcheen, 10, 10 nS, 54,
174.
Act, India, Ivii, Iviii, 362, 377.
Act, Regulating, xxxii, xxxiii.
Adair, Captain Thomas, 93.
Adam's Bridge, 325 n3.
Adams, Captain John, 113, 220, 220 ral,
239, 240.
Adams, Mrs. Eleanor, 113, 220.
Adams, Re3aiold ; Master Attendant,
XXXV, 141 nl, 150 nl ; a tanka-
holder, xl, 276 ; death of, xhi,
288, 293, 293 ral, 307; letters
from, 141, 150, 173, 185, 195,
220, 222, 234, 256 ; remits money,
185 ; tenant of Palk's house, 195,
208, 208 nl, 223, 223 nl, 256 ; his
fortune, 288, 293, 307 ; mentioned,
xxxvi, 94, 235, 254.
Adams sisters. The, 237.
Adlercron, Colonel John, xii.
Admiralty House, Madras ; enlargement
of, xlviii, 324; Madge at, 223;
note on, 223 n2 ; conference at,
257 ; Governor's residence, 258,
258 nl, 260, 265.
Admiralty, Lords of the, 6.
Adoni district ; force to protect, xlvii,
devastated by Tipu, Ix ; Nizam
in, 23 ; Kizam loses, 410.
Adoni fort ; taken by Tipu, 414.
Advocate, Government, 29 ra3.
AfJaeck, (Captain Philip ?), 121.
Afghans, The, xvi.
Agassiz, Rougemont & Co., 386, 388.
Agra, xxxi, 237, 237 ?i3, 238.
Agreement as to Walajah's debt, 178, 179.
Ahmad Shah AbdaH, the Abdalee, the
Abdallah ; threatens Delhi, xvi,
40, 40 n2, 45, 45 n4 ; at Panipat,
xxxvi, 281 n2.
Ahmadnagar, 1 n3.
Ahtur, 34.
Aix-la-Chapelle, v. See Treaties.
Akbar, Huckenbar, 3, 3n 3.
Aldersey, WiUiam ; letters from, 69,
168 ; note on, 69 nl ; aids R. Palk,
jun., 226 ; mentioned, iv mI, 92.
Aldisoot, 415.
Alexander, James ; supports R. Palk, jun.,
92 ; note on, 92 n& ; at Patna,
130, 130 to5 ; goes to Europe,
180, 180 Til ; mentioned, 19 nl,
91, 352 n3. See Caledon.
Alexander, Rebecca, 30 nl. See Du Pr6.
Alexander, Robert, 352, 352 n3, 353.
Alexandria, 306.
Allahabad ; troops sent to, xvi, 45 ;
ceded to Shuja-ud-daula, xxxi,
227 n2 ; Mogul and Vizier at,
110 ; survey of, 167 ; payment
for, 231 ; note on, 231 n4.
AJlbeary, Mary, 51 n2. See Brooke.
Allum securities, 243, 244.
Alms, R. N., Lieut. James, 6, 6 n.3.
Ambrooke, v.
Ambur fort, Iv, 354.
America ; war with, xxxviii, 269, 302,
312 ; first U.S. ship arrives, Ivii,
363 ; Du Pr^'s advice as to, 102.
Amery, Mr. John S., Ixvii.
Amir-ul-Umara ; proposed employment
of, xxxiv, 246, 246 re2, 254 ; his
mot, hi ; Macartney's dislike of,
hx, 371, 371 n2 ; manages the
Nawab's affairs, Mx ; letters from,
58, 305 ; note on, 58 nl ; wedding
of, 154, 154 ?i3 ; his army com-
mand, 164, 225 ; his alleged plot,
291n2, 302, 303, 304 ; his character,
292, 303 ; question of his succes-
sion, 312, 312 ra2 ; called Madar-
ul-mulk, 225, 225 «3, 246, 316,
316 nl, 318 ; mentioned, Ixii, 391.
Amurampadu, 271.
Amusements, 207, 261, 327. See Sport.
Anantapur, 270 n4.
Anderson, Dr. James, xliv.
BB
422
Andrews, John ; envoy to Haidar, ix ;
criticism of, 78 ; note on, 78
nl ; signs certificate, 94 ; resigns,
197.
Angelville, 166.
Angria, x.
Anhalt-Dessau, Prince Leopold of, Ixv,
402, 402 nl.
Anjengo ; the Sclaters of, xxxvii ;
recruits at, 29 ; Chief at, 148 n 2,
258 ; Hughes at, 258 ; embarka-
tion at, 314 ; mentioned, 6, 13,
125, 164, 186.
Annoar. See Ennore.
Anson, George, Lord, 6.
Architect, Civil, 109 nl, 324 ml.
Arcot ; entered by Naw^b, vii ; Olive's
defence of, xii, 17 wl, 246 nZ ;
fails in suppHes, 23 ; Walajah's
visit to, 44, 48 ; Nizam's attempt
on, 62 ; neglected by Walajah,
218 ; attack expected on, 237 ;
troops at, 362 ; the command at,
363, 363 nl ; desolation around,
371.
Arcot, Nawab of. See Muhammad Ah.
See Walajah.
Arcy, Robert D'Arcy, Earl of Holder-
nesse, 6.
Ardley, Samuel ; superseded, 78 ; note
on, 78 n2 ; death of, 174, 179 ;
mentioned, 110, 110 »4, 135.
Arielore (Araiyalur), 26.
Armenian merchants, 137, 254.
Army ; combination of officers of, xxviii,
207 n3, 229 ni ; officers bargain
with Walajah, xxx, 224 ; pay with-
held from, Iv, Ivl, Ivii, 364, 372,
381, 393 ; mutiny in, Ivi, Ivil, 358,
363, 364, 379, 418 n4 ; distress
in, Ivii, 354, 373 ; want of supplies
for, 49 ; lack of personnel, 72,
88, 111, 135, 159; distribution
of, 99, 362 ; transfer of authority
from, 100; cost of Coast, 114;
Engineer corps created, 161 ;
oif-reckonings, 161 ; acts as
auxiliary, 164, 177 ; movements,
184, 199, 200, 207, 258, 328, 329 ;
waste in, 186 ; disoiphne in, 193 ;
negroes in, 200 ; prize money for,
224 ; dealings with natives by
officers of, 233 ; aids Shuja-ud-
daula, 238 ; losses in Cambay,
249 ; agents, 351 nl ; arrack for,
362, 363. See Batta. See Court-
martial. See Regiments.
Arnachala Chetti, 136, 280.
Amee (Ami) ; beseiged, 102 nl ; death
of Kelly at, 106 n5 ; claimed by
the Marathas, 235, 235 n4 ; mutiny
at, 418 ni.
Arrack ; Goa, xxxv, 256 ; for troops, Ivi,
362, 363 ; consignment of, 5 ;
note on, 5 n9.
Arrack and Toddy ; contract for, xxxii,
216, 310.
Arrany. See Amee.
Artists, Society of, 361 nl.
Arzdasht, 209, 209 nl.
Asaf-ud-daula ; Nawab of Oudh, xxxiii,
li, 320, 320 nl ; cedes Benares,
xxxiii, 249.
Ashburton ; the Palks of, iv, v ;
Grammar school of, v ; member
for, 30 m2, 86 nl, 242, 245;
Dunning of, 135 vA, 245 nl ;
mentioned, 79, 88, 113 ni, 115,
180 w3, 227 nl, 231, 231 n2, 374,
381.
Ashburton, John Dunning, Lord, 135 ni,
245 nl. See Dunning.
Aska, 261.
Asquith, Commander David ; commands
the Surprise, lii ; his conduct, hi,
hii, 337, 338, .341, 342; claims
passage money, hii, 338, 350, 361,
362 ; letters from, 340, 345, 351,
352 ; his previous command,
hii, 341, 342; his table, 338,
349, 349 nl.
Assaymaster, 197 nA, 216, 257 m2.
Assigned Revenue, Committee of, 109 ml.
Assignment ; Walajah's second, h, 371,
391 ; surrender of the, h, lix,
374, 411; Walajah's first, 129,
155.
Association of Piece-goods merchants, 216
Association of Diamond merchants, 73,
76, 9p. See Diamonds.
Atcheen. See Achin.
Attorney, Letter of, 219.
Attorney-General, 29 m3.
Audynarayenah Chitty (Adinarayana
Chetti), 136.
Aurangabad, 1, 1 m3.
Aurangzeb, 3.
Aurora, frigate; Commissioners embark
in, 119 ; at the Cape, 125,
130, 138; fears for, 130, 134,
136 ; given up for lost, 139, 148,
149, 150, 154, 157, 158, 161, 184 ;
mentioned, 30 m3, 124. See Ships.
Am^ras. See Textiles.
Austen, Francis, 124.
Austen, Jane, 124 ml.
Austen, Philadelphia, 124 )j1. See Han-
cock.
Austen, Rev. George, 124.
Auteuil, Louis Combault de, xi, 23 ml,
102 ml.
Awd. See Oudh.
Ayton, Brassey & Co. ; letters from,
386, 388.
423
BadCOCk, Rev. Samuel ; his career,
Ixiii ; letters from, 384, 406,
415, 419 ; note on, 384 ?i3 ;
mentioned, 416.
Bahour, xi, Ivi, 356 m2.
Baillie, Colonel William, 1, 317 h2.
Baji Rao, Peshwa, xxxvi.
Baker, Aaron, x rel.
Baker, Commander George ; his ser-
vices, XXXV ; describes the
revolution, xl, 282 — 288 ; his
view of the revolution, xhii, 308,
312 ; his water-supply scheme,
xliii, xlv, 195, 234, 312, 312 w3,
315, 315 7i3, 316; reports on
fortifications, xlv, 255, 315 ; his
hostility to Wyncb, xlv, 316 ;
commends R. WeUand, xUx,
333 ; describes results of the
war, Ivii, 353 ; Master Atten-
dant, 141 «1 ; recommended by
Palk, 171, 193; note on, 171
«3 ; reports on Madge's estate,
232; letter to, 249; letters
from, 249, 253, 254, 257, 265,
269, 271, 282, 304, 307, 313,
314, 316, 332, 354, 358, 362,
374, 391 ; his kindness to R.
WeUand, 254, 288, 301 ; ham-
jiered in his work, 256 ; his
ill-health, 309 ; loss of his son,
325 ; mentioned, xxxvi, xxxvii,
xxxviii, Iv, Ixii, 322.
Baker, Ensign George, xlvii, 325,
325 k4.
Baker, William, 171 ii3.
Bakhshi, buxey, 80, 80 m5, 156 n2.
Balaghat, The ; Marathas retire to,
183, 183 ral ; Raghoba in, 237,
239 ; Haidar Ali in, 270.
Balaji Baji Rao, Peshwa, 280 ra7.
Balambangan ; opium for, 255 ; note
on, 255 nlO ; settlement at,
257 re2 ; capture of, 259, 259 n2,
260, 264.
Balamuttu Chetti, 280.
Baldwin, George, 294, 294 nl.
Balfour, John, 413, 413 n6.
Ballard, Mr. ; a cadet, 91, 101, 102.
Balwant Singh, Raja of Benares, 249,
249 nl.
Banca, Straits of, Sumatra, 53.
Bandar Abbas, 5 n2.
Bandarmalanka ; factory at, 29 ; ship-
yards at, 94 ; note on, 94 »2 ;
oppression at, 264.
Bangalore ; threatened by Col. Smith,
xiii ; proposed action regarding,
25, 33 ; Marathas advance on.
Bangalore — cont.
42, 47 ; delay of British action
against, 81, 89.
Bank ; at Calcutta, Ixi, 394 nZ.
Bank of India ; proposed, Ixi, Ixii,
394, 395.
Bank Annuities, 8.
Banks, Captain GJeorge ; taken by
Marathas, xlix, 330, 331 ; note
on, 330 ni.
Bannatyne, Mrs., iti, iv, Ixvii, 1.
Bantam, x nl.
Banyan, banya, 80, 80 nZ.
Baramahal, The ; Wood's success in,
XV, 82 »2 ; promised to Wala-
jah, xxi, 184 ; FitzGterald in,
166 nl ; situation of, 184 nl.
^Barclay, Robert ; member of Madras
Coimcil, 364, 364 nZ ; his son,
406, 406 n2.
Barhampore. See Berhampur.
Barker, Brig.-General Sir Robert ; letter
from, 112; his career, 112 ml ;
at Benares, 227, 227 nZ ; leaves
India, 232 ; mentioned, xxxi,
xlv, 360 nl.
Barker, Mr., 110.
Barnard, Thomas, 374, 51in2.
Barnard, WiUiam Harry Vane, Vis-
count, 407.
Baroda, Barraud, 1 tc3.
Barr6, Colonel Isaac, 353, 353 nl.
Barrington, Fitzwilliam, 15, 15 nl,
167, 167 n2.
Barwell, Richard ; member of Supreme
Council, xxxii ; supports Hast-
ings, xxxiii ; rumour regarding,
207, 207 «4 ; prosecutes the
Fowkes, 248 »5 ; mentioned,
319, 320.
Basalat Jang ; rules Guntur, viii,
23 m6 ; his French troops, xxxv,
xlvii, 252, 252 nl, 258, 258 ni,
259 ; besieges BeUary, xxxv ;
is routed by Tipu, 259 ; nego-
tiates with Rumbold, xlvii ; his
agreement about Guntur, 1 ; his
death, Ix, 414 ; his settlement
with Madhu Rao, 23 ; brother
of Nizam Ali, 23 m6 ; tributary
to the Nizam, 34 ; British aid
for, 264 «5 ; at war with Haidar,
270 ; his son at Adoni, 414.
Basra ; passengers via, xlix, 330 ;
voyage to, 5 ; Coote travels via,
137 m2, 142, 144, 146, 158;
news from, 154, 156.
Bassein, xxxiv, 273.
Basset, Mrs., ix.
Batavia ; Governor of, 54 ; Cranch at,
77, 86 ; remittances from, 221 ;
424
Batavia — cont.
Dutch troops from, 224 ; men-
tioned, 149, 168.
Bath, Order of the, 158.
Batta ; withdrawal of, Ivi, 359, 376 ;
continuance of, 363.
Batta, Half ; abolition of, 272, 281 ;
still drawn at Triohinopoly, 370.
Bay of Bengal ; survey of, 167.
Bayelan, M., 35.
Baylie, Sexton ; receives Palk's goods,
liii, 346, 350 ; seizes the effects,
liv, 347—349 ; Surveyor of the
port of Limerick, 346 ; his
conduct, 346—348 ; his bill of
costs, 350, 351.
Bazalet Jing. See Basalat Jang.
Bazett, C. ; letter from, 129.
Bazett, Captain Matthew, 129 n2.
BazzaUyzung. See Basalat Jang.
Beads, St. Ignatius's. See Beans, St.
Ignatius's.
Bean, Mr., 52.
Beans, St. Ignatius's, 93, 93 »2.
Beardmore, Samuel ; cadet, 203, 203 ?i4,
230, 230 »2.
Beaufoy, Mr. and Mrs., 395.
Beausset, M., 235.
Bebbooly. See Bobbili.
Becher, Richard ; his office, 130 ; ill-
ness of, 131, 131 ra3 ; mentioned,
389, 389 n2.
Beck, Captain de, 121, 121 n3, 122.
Bednur ; taken by Tipu, li, 27 wl ;
ravaged by the Marathas, 47 ;
note on, 49 n2 ; taken by
Haidar, 61 ; mentioned, 89.
Bednur, Rani of ; her country taken
by Haidar, 33 ; a prisoner, 35 ;
liberated, 49, 49 n2.
Beeke, Rev. Henry ; goes to Switzer-
land, Ixiii ; suggests a tour,
378 ; receipts from, 390 ; at
Oxford, 420, 420 nl ; men-
tioned, 382.
Beetle. See Betel.
Begams of Oudh, li.
Bellary, xxxv.
Bellecombe, Major-General ; Governor
of Pondicherry, xliii, 312 ; capit-
ulates, xlvii, 324, 325, 325 n2 ;
succeeds Jean Law, 311 ; a
prisoner of war, 325.
Bellingham, Captain, 98, 98 »1, 115.
Belvidere, The ; at Haldon, ix ; at
Esterhazy, 400.
Benares ; ceded to the British, xxxiii,
249, 249 nl ; Raja deposed, li ;
Treaty of, 227, 227 m2 ; troops
approach, 238 ; mentioned, 252,
379.
Bencoolen ; Governor of, 96 nl ; re-
mittances from, 221 ; mentioned
17 ml, 214.
Benfield, Paul ; his career, xl, 109 nl ;
soucar to Walajah, xl, 236,
236 ml ; a tarete-holder, xl, 276,
278, 284, 310; supports the
Majority, xli, 289 ; his charges
against Pigot, xlui, 284, 291,
299 ; his visits to Tanjore,
xliii, 280, 294, 304 ; summoned
to England, xliv, 326; his
refractory conduct, 103, 103 n2,
109 ; contractor for fortifica-
tions, 255, 255 n5 ; his dubaah,
278, 283, 303 ; his loans to
Walajah, 283 ; his enmity to
Pigot, 291, 305; mentioned,
314, 418.
Bengal ; survey of, xxiii, 167, 167 ml ;
Nawab of, xxv, xxvi, xxvi ml,
122 m2, 126, 126 m5, 191, 206;
combination of officers in, xxvui ;
revenue regulations for, xxxi,
191, 192, 206, 207, 228, 231, 233,
234; affairs of, 110, 165, 170;
reform needed in, 117, 120, 179 ;
trouble expected in, 126, 156,
156 m3 ; terrible famine in, 131,
132, 135, 137, 141, 147, 191;
Coote intends going to, 137, 142,
144 ; Hastings proposed as
Governor of, 157 ; charges
against Councillors of, 170 ;
Hastings becomes Governor of,
173, 174, 179 ; Naib Diwan of,
187 ml, 206 m3 ; Hastings's re-
forms in, 191, 192, 206, 228, 233,
238 ; Cartier as Governor of,
208 ; floods in, 231 ; rumour
regarding, 235 ; Hastings Gover-
nor-General in, 240 ; informers
in, 248 ; Government credit in,
364, 372 ; reduction of salaries
in, 376.
Bengal Atlas, Rennell's, xxiii, 167 ml.
Bengal, Bay of. See Bay of Bengal.
Bengal Detachment, Peach's ; marches
on Hyderabad, xiv, xv, 68, 199 ;
defeats Narayan Deo, xxx,
68 m2 ; returns to Bengal, 200.
Bengal Detachment, Pearse's ; marches
from Midnapur to Madras, 1,
343 ml ; in action, lii, 352 ml ;
returns to Bengal, Iv, 352, 362.
Bengal Government. See Council,
Bengal.
Berar, Raja of, xhx, 1.
Berdmore, Mr. See Beardmore.
Berhampur, Berampoore ; province of,
1 m3.
425
Berhaiupur, Barhampore, Burham-
pore ; cantonment of, 158, 282.
Berlin, Ixv, Ixvi, 402, 403, 404.
Besan9on, 383.
Beteelas. See Textiles.
Betel, 18, 18 n9.
Betel and Tobacco farm, xxxv, 19 m4,
57, 234, 236, 310.
Bethime, Dr. George, 17, 17 w2.
Bhagavan Pantulu, 280.
Bhang, xxxv, 234, 234 »i3.
Biddanur, Bidnoor. See Bednur.
Bihar ; Naib Diwan of, xxvi, 206 »i3 ;
famine in, 131 ; Revenue Coun-
cil for, 134, 136 ; survey of, 167.
Bimlipatam, 1, 354.
Binny, Charles, 380, 380 to2.
Black Town, Madras ; defences of,
18 ri5 ; source of water near,
171 n3 ; Governor's military
powers in, 300 ; French prisoners
lodged in, 325, 325 n5.
Blue Goods. See Textiles.
Board of Commerce. See Board of
Trade.
Board of Control ; orders of, 362 ; con-
stitution of, 377 ral ; disappro-
bation of, 394 ; justice expected
from, 418.
Board of Police, xix.
Board of Revenue ; in Madras, Ixii,
402, 413 ; in Bengal and Bihar,
130, 134, 136, 158, 230.
Board of Trade, Ixii, 402, 413.
Bobbili, Bebbooly, 366.
Boddam, Charles, 245, 245 ?i4.
Boddam, Rawson Hart ; Governor of
Bombay, Iviii, 195 nl, 368 rel ;
at Telhcherry, 195 ; letter from,
368 ; mentioned, 281.
Boehm & Sons, 82.
Boehm, Edmund ; agent for Vansit-
tart, 127, 127 n2, 128 ; character
of, 189, 189 nl ; his dealings in
India stock ; 243, 243 n5 ; men-
tioned, 169, 170, 180, 190, 235.
Boehm, R., 215.
Boehm family. The, 245.
Boileau, John, 408.
Bolts, William, xxvi, 203, 203 nl.
Bombay ; Governor of, 18 n5, 148 n2,
282, 282 nS ; squadron at, 213,
263, 266, 273; British envoy
at, 266 ; Hughes's work at, 301 ;
Raghoba at, 309 ; ship docked
at, 314 ; financial situation at,
368, 372 ; mentioned, 6, 150.
Bombay Government. See Coimoil,
Bombay.
Bomorey, 163 n3.
Bonds, Company's ; discount on, IvM,
lix, Ixi, 364, 372, 381, 393;
liquidation of, 238, 387, 393 n2,
401, 415.
Bonjour, Colonel Abraham ; captures
Kalaiyarkoil, xxviii ; at Neu-
chatel, Ixiv, 396 ; guards the
Camatic passes, 60 ; note on,
50 n.2 ; suppresses the Kallars,
218; 218 n6; leaves India, 255,
255 n8 ; executor for Des Plans,
396, 396 n3, 397.
Bonnevaux, Captain Peter, xlix, 330,
330 n2, n5, 331.
Books ; Palk's gift of, 131 ; on Moslem
law, 158, 187 ; gift of Persian,
159 ; Ironside's Persian, 168 ;
Arabic MS., 203.
Borel, Mrs., 385.
Borneo, 255 wlO, 267 n2, 259.
Bo.scawen, Admiral the Hon. Edward ;
his expedition to India, v, xi ;
a Lord of the Admiralty, 6 ;
Baker's service with, 171 ?i3 ;
mentioned, vi, xxxv.
Bosoawen, Hon. Mrs. Frances, 63, 63re3.
Boulger, Mr. Demetrius C, Ixvii.
Boulton, Henry Crabb, Chairman, 89,
89 ra2; a Director, 117, 117 n2;
Hastings addresses, 219, 219 n3.
Bourchier, Charles ; succeeds Palk as
Governor, viii, xii, 18 ; luckless
administration of, xiii, 43, 95,
105, 109, 129; recalls Col.
Smith, xiv ; his opinion of
Rayalu Pant, xvii, 108 ; his
resignation, xviii, 95, 95 ml,
102, 104, 105, 111, 116, 118;
his fortune, xviii, 108 ; Orme's
opinion of, xviii ; his career,
18 ?i5 ; confers with Walajah,
26 ; letters from, 36, 105 ; his
expected successor, 51 ; his
attitude to Calland, 70 ; his
difficulties, 71, 71 to2, 104; is
influenced by Call, 78 ; arranges
Smerdon's transfer, 86 ; incurs
displeasure, 96, 122 ; his account
of the treaty with Haidar, 105,
106; leaves India, 121, 122;
his reception in England, 148,
'154, 163; letter to, 197; his
silver plate, 198 ; his neglect of
Tom Palk, 202; a creditor of
Johnson, 216; his dubash, 296 ;
his term of office, 365 ; men-
tioned, ix nl, xvi, XXV, 20, 22,
22 n2, 29, 30 nl, 48, 48 »3, 66,
57, 64, 77, 92, 94, 96, 99, 110,
134, 149, 159, 184, 185, 199,
305.
426
Bourohier, Mrs. (Charles), 38, 108, 139.
Bourchier, James ; his attachment,
xiii, 29»i6, 37, 37 ra2, 38, 50;
returns to England, xviii, 121,
122 ; envoy to the Marathas,
24 ; note on, 24 nl ; envoy to
the Nizam, 42, 47, 49 ; envoy
to Haidar, 62 ; letter from, 71 ;
applies to Mrs. Morse, 101 ; his
remittances, 108, 108 nH ; men-
tioned, viii n2, xii, 29, 91, 93 n2,
94.
Bourohier, Richard ; Governor of Bom-
bay, xviii, 18 k5 ; his death,
148 ; note on, 148 n2.
Bourchier family. The, 168.
Bourghaus, Count de, 411.
Bowhay, x nl.
Boyd, John ; loan by, 127, 127 7i3 ;
mortgage offered to, 243, 243 nl,
244 ; mentioned, 64, 64 n4.
Bradford, Rev. J., Ixiii ; letter from,
402.
Brathwaite, Colonel John ; reduces
Mah6, xlvii ; defeated in Tan-
jore 1 ; narrow escape of, 176 ;
note on, 176 m3.
Brazil, 150, 163.
Brett, Charles, 5, 5 »8, 63, 250.
Brett, T., 63.
Brett family. The, 302.
Brettell, Commander Thomas, 376.
Brickenden, Richard, 94.
Bridgeman, George, 64, 64 n2.
Bridgeman, Sir Henry, 64, 64 re2.
Briggs, Dr. Stephen, 73, 73 nS.
Bright, PhylUs, 220 nS. See Hopkins.
Bristol, Gilbert Ironside, sen.. Bishop
of, xxvi.
Bristol, -Gilbert Ironside, jun., Bishop
of, xxvi.
British Museum ; Palk MSS. in, iii, iv,
viii n2, ix nl, n3, xvi re2, xviii,
xix, xxvii nl, xxxiv, Ixvii, 52 ni;
Hastings's letters iii, iv, iv nl ;
Lawrence's Narrative in, x k2 ;
letters from Call in, xv ; Bar-
ker's drawing in, 112 nl.
Broach, xxxvi, 250 nl, 280.
Broadcloth, Company's. See Textiles.
Brohier, Captain John, 22 to4.
Bromfield, Commander Philip, 258.
Brooke, Henry ; member of the
Majority, xl, 289, 306; sus-
pended, xli, xim, 285, 294, 300,
306 ; fined, xliv ; leaves India,
xlv,-314; letters from, 61, 141,
304 ; note on, 51 n2 ; involved
in Manila dispute, 51, 52 ; his
transfer, 135, 174, 197 ; imparts
secret information, 140, 140 n2 ;
Brooke, Henry — iont.
his houses, 141 ; opposes Wala-
jah, 246, 246 ni ; charge against,
285 ; leave refused to, 311 ;
verdict against, 315 ral ; men-
tioned, xii, 255, 259, 270, 299.
Brooke, Mrs. Mary, 52. See Allbeary.
Brooke, Thomas, 304.
Brown, Captain George, 147, 147 vA.
Browne, G., letter from, 416.
Brownrigg, Major, 82.
Bruce, Captain, 110.
Brunswick, Augusta, Duchess of, Ixvi,
405.
Buchanan, Dr. Duncan, 52, 52 m5.
Buckunjee ; banking house of, 236,
236 m5.
Buckland-in-the-Moor, iv.
Bulman, Dr. Job, 247 nl.
Bulwansing. See Balwant Singh.
Burhampore. See Berhampur.
Burt, Dr. Adam ; attends R. Palk,
jun., Iii, 336, 340 ; takes charge
of effects, liii, 343, 344; his
affidavit, liv, 350 ; prepares
medical case, 333 ; letters from,
336, 340, 341, 342, 343, 350 ; at
Limerick, 337 ; his memoran-
dum, 338 ; attends the crew,
338, 350, 362 ; passage money
for, 340, 342, 361 ; is suspicious
of the captain, 341 ; his protest,
344, 345 ; engages an attorney,
346 ; travels to London, 345,
347.
Burton, Mr., 218.
Bussera, Bussora, Bussorah. iSee
Basra.
Bussy, Charles Joseph, Marquis de ;
defends Cuddalore, li ; upholds
Walajah's sovereignty, Ivi, 356 ;
his death, Ivii, 363, 364; his
troops, 355.
Butterford, Ixiii.
Buxar, xlv, 317 n2.
Buxey. See Bakhshi.
Cadapanattam See Kadapanattam.
Cadets ; Minor, Ixii, 394 ; arrival of,
114.
Cadiz, Cales, 13, 74.
Caillaud, Brig.-General John ; occupies
the Circars, viii ; negotiates
Treaty of Hyderabad, viii;
60 ra4, 62 ; Nizam's gift to, ix ;
Lawrence's Narrative attri-
buted to, xn2 ; at Hyderabad,
427
Caillaud, Brig. -General— core?.
47 ; his expedition to Bengal,
66 nl, 98 rel, 365 n2 ; in Eng-
land, 85 ; his career, 102 nl ;
supports Fletcher, 163 re2 ; at
Patna, 310 nl ; letters to, 384,
408 ; mentioned, xi, xlv, Ixi,
19, 19 »2, 44, 51, 63, 63 nl, 69,
102, 158, 228, 230, 318, 319,
360 rel, 384 nl.
Caillaud, Mrs. (John), 102, 384.
Cairo ; mails via, xxxi, 292, 294, 306.
Calacoil. See Kalaiyarkoil.
Calcutta ; becomes seat of the Diwani,
XXV, W2 ; capture of, 7, 52n2 ;
lack of money at, 93, 126 ; price
of bread at, 135 ; corpses in
streets of, 147 ; troops near,
188 ; troops for the Coast from,
199, 200 ; revenue adminis-
tered from, 206, 227, 233;
arrival of Councillors and Judges
at, 273 ; Olive's expedition to,
315 n4: ; petition from, 373,
377 ; mentioned, 113, 124 rel,
130, 131, 159, 202, 208, 214,
218, 219, 220, 226, 229, 230.
Caledon, James Alexander, Earl of,
92 re6. See Alexander.
Cales. See Cadiz.
Calicut ; ship seized at, xlvii, 330,
330 nl ; reduction of, li ; pro-
posals regarding, 33.
Call, James ; note on, 131 ?il ; his
private trade, 135, 138 ; a
creditor of Walajah, 418 nl ;
mentioned, 131.
Call, John, sen., 35, 35 re3, 41, 113. '
Call, Colonel John ; Chief Engineer
and a Councillor, xii, 109 rel,
174 rel ; a Eield Deputy, xii,
xiv, 71 ; reports on the war,
XV, 22—26, 41 — 43 ; his letters
in the British Museum, xv ;
retires to England, xviii, 121,
122 ; aids the Nawab's creditors,
lix, 371, 371 rel ; letters from,
22, 34, 41 ; his career, 22 re4 ;
his proposed treaty, 24, 31 — 34 ;
his policy, 25, 31 ; sends home
diamonds, 34 ; aids the Gover-
nor, 36 ; envoy to the Marathas,
43, 48 ; supported by CUve, 59 ;
superseded by Du Pr6, 59 nS ;
his abilities, 71 ; his conduct
criticized, 78, 122, 148; incurs
displeasure, 96 ; application to,
99 ; prepares to sail, 100, 104,
107, 110, 111, 118 ; his health,
103 : expected as Governor,
175 ; his insurance premium.
Call, Colonel John — cont.
239; mentioned, 94, 115, 119,
138, 202, 290, 305, 324.
Calland, John ; letters from, 55, 69 ;
note on, 55 re3 ; his difference
with Bourchier, 56, 57 ; com-
plaints against, 69 ; leaves
India, 93, 96, 96 ?i4 ; his in-
tentions, 107 ; acts for the
Nawab's creditors, 121, 121 re2 ;
his despair, 129 ; his expected
return, 155.
Carabay, 249.
Cambridge, Richard Owen ; his Account
of the War in India, x, 2.
Campbell, Alexander, 15, 15 n4:, 69,
69re2.
Campbell, Major-General Allan, 363,
363 rel.
Campbell, Major-General Sir Archi-
bald ; arrives as Governor, Ix,
Ixi, 402, 413 ; his previous
service, Ixi, 374 nl ; appointed
C.-in-G., Ixi, 414 ; his early
measures, Ixii, 402 ; his expected
arrival, 374, 386, 392; com-
plaint to, 418 ; mentioned,
373 rel, 401.
Campbell, Colonel Charles ; at second
siege of Madura, 61 »1, 82 re2 ;
note on, 63 ?i4 ; in England,
170, 170 re2; hopes to return,
240 ; mentioned, 26 re3, 57, 63,
70, 70 rel.
Campbell, Daniel ; Surgeon-General,
333, 333 rel, 334.
Campbell, Colonel Donald ; his com-
mand, 26 ; note on, 26 re3 ;
instructions to, 26 ; his expedi-
tion against the PoUgars, 50 ;
at first siege of Madura, 61 rel,
81 re2 ; loses two children, 79 ;
at Kolar, 81 ; prepares to sail,
85 ; mentioned, 63 n4.
Campbell, Mrs. (Donald), 93, 96, 96 re3.
Campbell, Lieut. Dugald, 418 re4.
Campbell, Lt.-Colonel Dugald, 418,
418 re4.
Campbell, Colonel John ; defends
Mangalore, li.
Campbell, Colonel John, 250.
Canal, Cochrane's, 91 re7.
Canary Islands, 163.
Canning, Rev. Richard, 76, 184, 184 «3.
Canoul, Nawab of. See Kurnool.
Canton ; G. Smith at, 7, 7 re4 ; silver
for, 53, 73 ; remittance from,
170 ; voyage to, 239 ; super-
cargoes of, 401.
Cantonment ; at Sheveram or Wala ■
jahbad, Ixii, 391, 392, 392 rel ;
428
Cantonment — cont,
at Cossimbazar or Berhampur,
80, 158.
Cape of Good Hope ; Ozias Humphry
at, lix, 369 ; the Aurora leaves,
125, 138 ; severe weather off,
151 ; H. Vansittart, jun., at, 163,
168 ; the Hawke sent to, 194;
Fletcher sails for, 304, 309;
mentioned, 22, 50, 51, 74, 357.
Cape Town, 163.
Cape Verd Islands, 163.
Capper, Colonel James ; carries des-
patches, xliii, 288, 306 ; note
on, 288 ?i2.
Caramnassah River. iSee Karamnasa.
Caranjar. See Karanja.
Carlisle, WiUiam Nicolson, Bishop of,
415, 415 nZ.
Carmichael, Mr., 83, 90.
Camao, Brig. -General John ; speaks in
Parliament, xxv, 186 ; expected
to succeed Hornby, 310 ; his
career, 310 wl ; mentioned, xlv.
Camatic battalions, 114.
Camatio, Nawab of the. See Muham-
mad Ali. See Walajah.
Camatic, The ; invasions of, xiii, xiv,
1, 66 ; devastation in, xiv, xia,
1, Ivii, 95, 103, 105, 359 ; fears
of invasion of, xxi, xhx, 31 ;
threatened by the Marathas,
xxi, xxiii, xxxii, 141, 142, 145,
152, 153, 175, 235, 238 ; passes
of. See Passes, Carnatic ; des-
cription of, 1 h3, 2, 3, 3 nl ;
grant of, 42, 62 ; cliaut demanded
for, xxxii, 42, 237 ; frontier of,
63 ; anarchy in, 97 ; British
reverses in, 99 ; protection of,
129, 182; peace in, 152, 213,
256, 270; hostilities with the
French in, 296 ; sovereignty
claimed for, 356 ; inspection of
forts of, 363 ; assignment of,
372, 391.
Caroor (Karur) ; Haidar at, 61 ; taken
from Mysore, 62 ; seized by
R. Smith, 113 al.
Carpenter, Ensign J., letter from, 14.
Carr, Mark, 17, 17 n2.
Carter, Marian, 78, 79 nl, 87, 95.
Carter, Roger ; sails for England, 93,
96 ; Governor of Bencoolen,
96 n\ ; mentioned, 94, 107.
Cartier, John ; CJovemor of Bengal,
xxii, xxv, 45 nZ, 113, 113 nl,
117 ; in Council, 45, 80, 80 n% ;
is succeeded by Hastings, 174;
his prospects, 175 ; leaves India,
208 ; treatment of, 208.
Carty, Mr., 135.
Carvalho, Elizabeth, 146 ml.
Casamaijor, James Henry ; appoint-
ments of, 386, 413 ; note on,
386 »i2; mentioned, 22, 22 re3.
Casamaijor, Noah, 22 nl, 386 n2.
Casamaijor, Mrs. Rebecca ; letter from,
22 ; note on, 22 nl ; mentioned,
267, 267 n2, 386 n2.
Casavah (Kesava) ; letter from, 154.
Casemates, 255, 255 w3.
Cash. See Coinage and Currency.
Cassavaia (Kesavaiya), 94.
Castro, Daniel de, 394, 394 nl.
Castro, Moses de, 241, 394 nl.
Castro, Samuel de, 394 nl.
Castro, De, Felling & de Fries, 247 nl.
Catherine II., of Russia, 412 n2.
Cauvery (Kaveri) River, 184 nl.
Cawn Sahib, 61. See Muhammad
Yusuf.
Cawsepatty Rauz, 367. See Gajapati
Raz.
Ceylon ; navigation round, 124; Dutch
troops from, 224 ; Hughes's
return from, 312 ; mentioned,
54, 168.
Chabuh, whip, 109, 109 >!3.
Chacram. See Coinage and Currency.
Chait Singh, li.
Chambers, Sir Robert, 320.
Chambers, William ; represents Wala-
jah, 258, 258 n3 ; at Tanjore,
280, 280 nl.
Chamier, John, 418.
Champion, Brig.-General Alexander,
xxxi, 233.
Chanda Sahib ; supported by the
French, xi ; executed, xi, 3 ;
his character, 3 ; his son, 61,
181 ; note on, 61 n4 ; his family,
106 ?i4.
Chandernagore ; migration to, Iviii,
376 ; defences of, 110.
Changama ; battle of, xiii, 147 m4 ;
pass of, 1.
Chapman, Colonel Charles ; succeeds
Barker, xxxi, 232, 232 n3 ; his
gambling losses, 232, 233.
Charity Choultry. See Choultry.
Charity School. See School.
Charity, Temple, 271.
Charles III., of Spain, 8, 8 n7.
Chatham, William Pitt, Earl of, 30,
356.
Chaubuke. iSee Chdbuk.
Chaul ; port of, xlvi, 317, 317 ni.
Ohaut, chout, choute; claimed from
the Carnatic, xxxii, 42, 237 ;
expected from Haidar, 33, 116 ;
etymology of, 33 nl ; freedom
429
Chavt, chout — cont.
from, XXXV, 257.
Checrecoad (Chakrakode?), 21, 104.
Chen Busvaiya, 49 ra2.
Chepauk; Nawab's palace at, xlviii,
218, 218 ?i2, 244, 260, 325,
325 n\ \ investiture at, 132 n2 ;
Nawab's court at, 239 ; Wala-
jah at, 257, 268, 274, 355.
CheppermaU Chitty. <See Chippermall
Chetti.
Chey goods. See Textiles.
Chicacole Circar ; attacked by Narayan
Deo, XXX, 199 ; oppression in,
lix, 365, 366 ; Sitaram Raz in,
28 n5, 50 ; let to Renters, 43,
48, 50, 65 ; troops in, 65, 115,
223, 261, 281 ; supplies from,
66 ; unhealthiness of, 321, 322.
Chichester, Charles ; of Hall, 415.
Chichester, Sir John, 5th Bart., ix.
Chichester, Sir John, 6th Bart., 406,
416, 419.
Children, sale of, Ivii, 373.
Chilnaik, 34.
China ; export of specie to, 154, 252,
307 ; voyage to England via,
184 ; G. Smith's interests in,
217, 218 ; sale of opium in, 221 ;
remittances through, 237, 238,
239 ; war-ship sent to, 312 ;
mentioned, 123, 126, 220, 248.
Chingleput ; Caillaud's force at, 102 nl;
R. Smith at, 113 ral ; district
includes the Jaghire, 146 vZ ;
Paymaster at, 315, 321, 327;
mentioned, 316, 391.
Chinnabolaram, 25, 33.
Chinon, 395.
Chinsurah ; migration to, Iviii, 376.
Chintz. See Textiles.
Chippermall Chetti ; Company's Mer-
chant, 136 ; his affairs, 197 ;
Mint Manager, 197 re4 ; with
Pigot at Tanjore, 277, 280;
visits Trichinopoly, 278 ; Mac-
kay's reception of, 311.
Chittoor, 336 ?i3.
Chittagong, 387.
Ohobdar, 311, 311 ?i3.
Chocapah Chitty. See Chokappa
Chetti.
Choiseul, Due de, 171, 171 ral.
Chokappa Chetti ; a Company's Mer-
chant, xii, xxxii, 18 re4, 56,
56 n2 ; deprecates export of
specie, xxxviii, 264 ; visits
Tanjore and Trichinopoly,
xxxix, 277, 278, 280 ; commends
Macartney, Iv, 355 ; letters
from, 18, 41, 136, 152, 154, 173,
Chokappa Chetti — cont.
196, 197, 210, 216, 225, 235,
246, 253, 259, 263, 277, 289,
292, 303, 310, 324, 325, 355,
364, 373, 380, 413 ; mentioned,
xxxiv, xl, xli, xlui, xlvii, Ixii.
Choliappa, 296, 322.
Chop ; stamp, die, 284, 284 ral ; Wala-
jah's 305.
Chorley, A., 63.
Chormandell, Choromandel. See Coro-
mandel.
Choultry, Charity, 21, 104, 154; note
on, 21 ral.
Choultry Plain, 285, 285 ra2.
Choultry, Register of the, 78 ra2.
Chout, choute. See Chaut.
Christna. See Kistna River.
Chudleigh, 167 ral.
Chudleigh, Sir George, ix.
Church of St. Rita, San Thome, 11 ral.
Churchill, Mr. 93.
Cioacole. See Chicacole.
Circars, Northern, The ; acquisition
and occupation of, viii, xv, 23 ra6,
62, 102 ral, 107, 365; annual
rent for, viii, xiv ; expedition
from, xiii, xv, 23, 47, 49, 63, 65 ;
threatened by Pazil Beg, xxui,
156 ; administration of xxxvii,
43, 120, 133, 367; unhealthy
hills of, xxxvii, 160 ; claim for
abohtion of tribute for, xlvii ;
Zemindars summoned from,
xlviii, 323 ; oppression in,
xlviii, 328 ; threatened by
Nizam, xlix ; pacification of,
48 ; troops in, 64, 99, 261 ra2 ;
morals of officers in, 65 ; treaty
of 1768 regarding, 108, 108 ral ;
the French in, 116 ra5, 366;
question of restoring, 120, 148 ;
the Palk brothers in, 136 ;
peace in, 165, 194 ; Circuit
Committee to visit, 267, 289,
414 ; mentioned, v, 28 ra5,
74ra3.
Circuit Committee. See Committee of
Circuit.
City of Dreadful Night, xvii ral.
Civil Servants ; resignation and exodus
of, Iviii, 376 ; trade restrictions
of; 234 ; pay withheld from, 354.
Clarke, Captain Sir John, R.N. ; carries
opium, 255 ; note on, 255 ra9 ;
carries off Mrs. Draper, 271 ra4 ;
mentioned, xxxvii, xxxvii ral.
Clavering, Lt.-General Sir John ;
member of the Supreme Council,
xxxii ; his relations with the
Madras Majority, xliii, 287 ;
480
Clavering — cont.
attempted usurpation by, xlv,
xlvi, 319, 319 nl, 320; his
death, xlvi, 320, 320 «.2 ; opposes
Hastings, 12 m2, 246, 262, 262 nl,
282 ; liis faction, 252 w4 ; his
illness, 312.
Cleveland, Mr., 398.
Clevland, Augustus C, 168.
Clive, Robert, Lord ; quarrels with
Pordyce, v ; visits England,
vi nl ; obtains grant of Ciroars,
viii ; defeats d'Auteuil, xi
his defence of Arcot, xii, 246 ra3
vindicates himself, xxv, 18.5
suppresses combination of offi-
cers, xxviii ; his expedition to
Bengal, xlv, 112 ral, 315 rtA ; at
Gheriah, 5 re6 ; favours Wala-
jah, 12 ; his relations with G.
Vansittart, 16, 37 ; sails for
England, 16, 50 ; writes to Call,
30 ; his party, 30 ?i2 ; his plans
regarding Marathas and Haidar,
31, 43, 105 ; supports Call, 59 ;
breaks with H. Vansittart, 89 ;
is attended by Dr. Hancock,
124 nl ; employs Ironside,
124 )i2 ; supports Purling, 129 ;
charges against, 170, 170 re3,
171, 193 ; obtains grant of the
Diwani, 187 n\, 231 ; rents
Admiralty House, Madras,
223 k2; reported- killed, 232;
his marriage, 396 nA.
Clode, Major WilHam, 379, 379 n%
Cloth, Broad. See Textiles.
Coast, The. See, Coromandel.
Cochrane, Hon. Basil, 91, 91 nl.
Cochrane, Thomas, Earl of Dundonald,
91, 91 nl.
Cochin, Raja of, 311.
Coffery, Coffree ; bravery of a, 110 ;
et3rmology, 110 ra2; companv,
200.
Coffin, Mr., 406, 406 nl, 415.
Coimbatore ; Wood's doings in, xxi,
121 ; Fullarton's success in, lii ;
in Haidai-'s hands, 95.
Coinage and Currency ; -sonnaut, 5,
5 jj4, 6 ; rea, 5, 5 )!5 ; fanam,
20, 20 »1, 27, 27 n2, 236;
pagoda, 20 nl, 27 J7.2 ; cash, 27,
27 ra2 ; Star pagoda, 27, 27 m3,
28?!4, 236, 249, 250; Porto
Novo pagoda, 27, 27 Jt3, 236 ;
Old Madras pagoda, 28, 28 ?i4 ;
M.M. pagoda, 28 ra4 ; gold
mohur, 102, 237, 280, 338;
Arcot rupee, 113, 239, 249, 250 ;
Spanish dollar, 170 ; Bombay
Coinage and Currency — conl.
rupee, 236 ; chacram, 236,
236 ?i4; Current rupee, 239,
362, 387 ; chequin (sequin), 338 ;
Sicca rupee, 361 ; debasement
of, 372; French livre, 382,
382 m2.
Coja Ashum Cawn. See Khwaja
Assam Khan.
Colar. See Kolar.
Colebrooke, Sir George ; liis Grenada
estates, xxii, 243 ; favours
Macleane, xxxix, 189, 189 k2 ;
Deputy Chairman, 89 ; Chair-
man, 186 nl; Palk's relations
with, 243 ; his dealings in stock,
244 ; mentioned, 186.
Colefax, Rev. Thomas, vi.
Coleroon River, 164, 363, 371.
Coles, Edward, 259.
CoUangoody (KoUangudi), 25.
Collectors ; replaced by Councils, 231.
Colleries (Kallars) ; rebel, 194, 218 ;
note on, 194 ml.
Collins, Captain Edward, 367, 367 nl.
Comaroo, Comerah, Comroo. See
Kumara.
Combamett, Commamett. See Kham-
mamett.
Commander-in-Chief, Bengal, xxxi,
112 nl.
Commander-in-Chief, India ; Lawrence
as, xi ; Coote as, xx, xlv, 133 nl,
144 ; Sloper as, lix, 370, 370 n3,
371.
Commander-in-Chief, Madras ; Smith
resigns office of, xxviii, 196 ;
Fletcher becomes, xxviii, 214 ;
Smith resumes duties of, xxix,
212, 214 ; Stuart as, li ; Lang as,
lU ; Dalling as, lix, 370, 370 n3 ;
Campbell as, Ixi, 414 ; Gover-
nor's powers as, 144, 146, 300;
Brathwaite as, 176 n3 ; to in-
spect forts, 363.
Commander-in-Chief, Naval, 132 n2.
Commerce, Board of. See Board of
Trade.
Commercial career ; premium for entry
on a, 402.
Commissary-General, 189 )i2.
Commissioners, Debt, 308.
Commissioners, Peace ; negotiate with
Tipu, lii, 351, 351 n2 ; return
from Mangalore, Iv, 355.
Commissioners, Reform ; appointed,
XX, 120 ; lost in the Aurora, xx ;
voyage of, 119 ; desire for
arrival of, .121, 124, 129; no
news of, 137, 147, 151 ; fears
for, 143, 158 ; proposal to re-
481
Commissioners, Reform — cont.
place, 167, 171, 191, 192, 193.
Committee of Accounts, 363, 364.
Committee of Assigned Revenue, 109 ?il
Committee of Circuit ; appointed,
xxxvii, 267 ; Lathom joins, xli,
300, 304; work of, Ixii, 267,
269, 289, 366, 367, 414 ; Russell
nominated to, 272 ; members
of, 299.
Committee, Revenue, 227. See also
Councils, Revenue.
Committee, Secret, vii, 191.
Committee, Select, of Bengal, 40.
Committee, Select, of Madras ; Palk
nominated to, vii ; to negotiate
with Tipu, Ivi, 358 ; disputes in
the, Ivi, 359 ; to settle terms of
debt, 120, 126, 126 nl, 327;
Stone a member of, 195.
Comoro Islands, 151 nl.
Company's Gardens, xli, 286, 289. See
also Garden House.
Comroo. See Kumara.
Condapillee See KondapaUi.
Condepa Chitty (Kondappa Chetti),136.
Confederacy against Haidar, xiii, 32.
Confederacy of Haidar, Nizam and
Marathas, xlix.
Conicoply, 20, 20 »3.
Conjeveram ; BaiUie's disaster near, I ;
raided by Haidar, 57 ; canton-
ment near, 391.
Conoul. See Kumool.
Constance, 395.
Convention of Wargaon, xlvi.
Cooke, Thomas, 4, 4 ral.
Cooke, Captain William, 225, 225 nl,
236.
Coote, General Sir Eyre ; C.-in-C. in
India, xx, 131, 137, 139, 145;
quarrels with Du Pre, xx, 132,
132 nl, 134, 136, 139, 141, 142,
143, 146, 161, 181, 185 ; refuses
to act, XX, 132, 134, 144, 146 ;
leaves India, 137 ?i2, 140, 142,
144, 153, 157, 158 ; speaks in
Parliament, xxv, 186, 193 ;
reappointed, xlv, 215 ; sent
against Haidar, 1 ; his victories,
1, 147 ra4 ; his illness, 1 ; returns
to Bengal, li ; his death at
Madras, U, 8nS, 211 n2, 336,
336 nA ; orders to, 8 ; his
career, 8 ?i6 ; his powers, 144,
157, 193 ; order of the Bath for,
168 ; is joined by Pearse, 352 nl;
regulations by, 394.
Copenhagen, 386, 417.
Corah. See Kora.
Coral ; importation of, 46, 46 rt3, 59, 77.
Cordon, 255, 255 n2.
Cork Harbour, 13.
ComeiUe, Daniel, xxxviii ; letter from,
274 ; note on, 274 n2.
Cornish, Admiral Samuel, 8n4, 12, 51?i.2.
Comwallis, Charles, Earl ; appointed
Governor- General, Ixi, 389, 414 ;
arrives at Madras, 410, 414 ;
assumes office, 414 ; his ad-
ministration, 418, 419 ; men-
tioned, 413 ;
Coromandel Coast ; cost of army on,
114 ; good government on, 170,
171 ; Dutch desire territory on,
224.
Coroner, 315, 316 ra2.
Corpus Christi festival, 399.
Cosby, Colonel Sir Henry, 418, 418 ?i3.
Coss, cose ; a measure of distance, 40,
40»i4.
Cossim AUy Cawn. See, Kasim Ali
Khan (Mir Kasim).
Cossimbazar ; the French at, 36 »2 ;
R. Palk, junr., at, 80, 175;
Hastings at, 190, 191 ; Middle-
ton as Chief at, 206 ; filature
near, 387 ; mentioned, 207, 214.
Cotsford, Edward ; his ship chased,
xlvi, 322 ; complains of Rum-
bold, xlviii, 323 ; his service,
xxix, XXX, 199 nl ; letters from,
199, 223, 322 ; reports on Gan-
jam, 199—201, 223 ; his troops,
200 ; visits England, 226, 235,
235 nl ; mentioned, 328.
Cotsford, WilUam, 34, 34 re3, 35, 38,
41, 64.
Council, Bengal, 71, 226.
Council, Bombay ; attack Marathas,
xxxiv, 249, 251 ; ignore Strat-
ton, xlui, 311 ; support Raghoba
xlvi, 256, 273 ; denounce Con-
vention of Wargaon, xlvi ; re-
duction of, Iviii, 368 ; take Sal-
sette, 250 ; their action condemn-
ed, 252 ; suspend hostilities,
263, 265 ; conclude peace, 279,
301 ; abandon Raghoba, 309 ;
Camao a member of, 310 nl ;
ask Madras for troops, 317.
Council Chamber, Port St. George, 257.
286.
Council, Madras ; aid Walajah with
troops, xxiv, 164 ; dissensions
in, xxix, xxxiv, xxxv, xl, Ivii,
209, 212, 252, 254, 278, 284,
296, 306, 364; parties in, xli,
xliv, 246, 249, 264, 278, 285;
strength of, xliv, 314, 328, 328^3,
368, 371, 374 ; want of ability
in, xlix, I, 323, 331 ; unpopular,
482
Council, Madras — conl.
Ivi, 358 ; G. Smith's application
to, 217 ; suspend Macpherson,
264 ; enquire into Sadleir's
conduct, 264 ; proceedings of,
272 ; Minority in, 278, 292, 294,
306 ; Majority assume the
Government, 286, 289, 294,
295, 300, 301, 306; Majority
arrest Pigot, 300 ; action of
Majority approved, 308.
Council of Durbar, 206.
Council, Supreme ; constitution of,
xxxii, 207 ?i4, 273 ; Hastings's
position in, xxxiii, xliii ; Mac-
pherson enters, xxxix, Ivi ;
support Madras Majority, xlui,
288, 307, 308 ; condemn Pigot's
acts, xliii, 276, 288, 291, 293,
297, 301, 306; rescind a reso-
lution, xlvi, 320 ; their difference
with Rumbold, xlviii ; difference
with Macartney, Iv, 355 ; order
revision of a treaty, Ivi, 358 ;
aid Bombay and Madras, Ixi,
393 ; dissensions in, 246, 252,
254, 260, 262, 319, 320; send
an envoy to Poona, 251, 253,
253 ral, 280; their orders to
Basalat Jang, 252 ; disapprove
action of Bombay, 252 ; sanc-
tion Walajah's request, 258 ;
Walajah's complaint to, 284 ;
their relations with Madras,
287, 308 ; make peace with the
Marathas, 309 ; their orders to
Dr. Burt, 336.
Councils, Provincial, 231.
Councils, Revenue, xxiii, 231.
Courland, Duke and Duchess of, 407.
Court Martial ; on Colonel Wood, xxi,
82 n1, 117, 121, 171 ; on Colonel
Stuart, xliv, 317 ; on Captain
Orton, 71 n\ ; on Captain Kelly,
114, 115.
Court, Mayor's ; decision regarding
Des Plans, Ixiv, 397 ; will
proved in, 68, 86 ; suits against
Wood in, 126 ; threat of action
in, 211 ; no power to grant
writ of Habeas Corpus, 287,
295 ; desire further powers,
293 ; Pigot's petition to, 295 ;
suit against Fletcher in, 309 ;
authorized to sit, 311.
Court of Directors ; despatches from,
and letters to, iv, 52, 52 %Z, 79 ;
receive Palk, viii, 59 ; called
the ' Honourable Twenty-four,'
72, 72 n2 ; displeasure of, 96 ;
Ministry's request to, 143 ; their
Court of Directors — ccml.
orders regarding Tanjore, 267 ;
censure Madras, 267 ; appoint
Circuit Committee, 267 ; reduce
salaries, 376 ; orders on bond
debt, 393, 393 n\, 401 ; their
orders about Walajah's debts,
418. /See East India Company.
Court of Enquiry, 317.
Court of Judicature, Supreme ; created,
xxxiii ; opinion regarding a
verdict, xliv ; assume excessive
authority, xlvi, 321 ; arrival of
Judges of, 273 ; authorize
Quarter Sessions, 311 ; opinion
regarding Clavering, 319.
Court of Proprietors, xlv, 91 ; reject
Ministry's request, 143 ; men-
tioned, 170 tc3, 316,
Court of Record, 217.
Courts, Civil, Criminal and Revenue,
206.
Courts of Justice, 233, 233 n6, ?i7, »9,
rail, ?il3.
Cowle ; grant, licence, 18, 18 nlO, 310.
Cradook, Florentia, 74 n4. /See Wynch
Plorentia.
Cranch, Captain Peter ; his death, 68,
77 ; note on, 68 «.3 ; his will, 77.
86, 100 ; his estate, 94, 98, 150.
Cranganore, 311.
Crarnamah,(fcrar-na/jM!),written agree-
ment, 356, 356 nZ.
C!rauford, Quintin ; aids Whitehill,
xliv ; leaves India, 216, 216 n\ ;
returns to Madras, 257, 257 tc3,
259 ; at MasuUpatam, 270,
270 to2, 272.
Crawford, Mr., 402.
Creditors of Walajah ; total debt to,
XV, xxiv, 27, 46 ; rates of
interest for, xxv, 39, 146 ;
agents in England for, xxv, 121,
148 ; Tanjore assignments for
certain, xl, 276, 278, 283, 284 ;
payments cease to, xlviii, 95,
147 ; distress of, lix, 326, 327,
381 ; Call's efforts for, lix, 371 ;
payments promised for, lix,
373 ; assignment to, 27 ; short
payments to, 44, 48, 77 ; lend
dividends to Government, 90 ;
enquiry regarduig debts to,
96 ; Select Committee nego-
tiate with, 120, 126 ; promises
to, 152, 155, 162, 170, 326, 327 ;
agreement between Company
and, 178, 179 ; Nawab disre-
gards agreement with, 179 ;
payments made, 380, 393, 401,
410, 414, 417 ; classes of, 418.
433
Crighton, John, 170.
Croke, Sophia, 74 nA.
Crown Prince of Prussia, Ixv, 404,
404 nl, 409.
Cfuttenden, Edward Holden, 15, 1.5 n\.
Cuchery. See Cutcherry.
Cuddalore ; Clive at, v ; Lathom as
Chief at, xli, 292 n2, 304 ; falls
to Tipu and the French, 1 ;
attacked by Stuart, h ; held
by the French, Iv, 354, 355;
restored to the British, Ivii,
364 ; Company's Merchants at,
69, 70 ; the Investment at, 70,
221 ; remains British, 95 ; Sad-
leir as envoy to, 96 re2 ; Daniell
at, 208 ; Fletcher reaches, 212 ;
Madge visits, 223 ; Ployer
posted to, 386.
Cuddapah, 23 ; Nawab of, 34 ; Haidar's
successes in, 61.
Cumberland, Duke of, 6, 6 n5.
Cuming, WiOiam, 57, 57 nl.
Cunette, 255, 255 nA.
Currapah. See Cuddapah.
Currency ; exhausted in Bengal, 227.
See also Coinage and Currency.
Custoory (Kasturi) ; letter from, 154.
Cutcherry, Cuchery, 280, 280 w3.
Cuthbert, Arthur, 83 n5, 328, 328 to4.
Dabir, secretary, 276, 276 n3.
Dacca, 45, 206, 215, 245.
Dacre & Harris, Messrs., 239.
Dacres, PhiHp M., 206, 206 rel.
Dallas, George, 377, 377 n4.
DaDing, Lt.-General Sir John, ; C.-in-
C, Madras, Hx, 370, 370 k3 ;
returns to England, Ixi, 414 ;
member of Council, 371 , 374 ; loss
of his son, 414 ; mentioned
Ixii, 391.
DaUing, Lieut., 414.
Da.lrymple, Alexander ; member of the
Minority, xl, 294, 306; sus-
pended by the Majority, xlii,
292, 295, 298, 300, 306 ; carries
despatches, xliii, 288, 288 ral,
306 ; at Sulu, 29 vA ; forms a
settlement, 255 n.10 ; arrives
with Pigot, 257, 259 ; note on,
257 n2, member of Circuit
Committee, 268, 299 ; at Tan-
jore. 276, 276 nl, 277, 280, 283
296; supports Pigot, 289,
mentioned, xxxviii, 258, 278.
Dalrymple, John, Lord; Ambassador
Dalrymple, John, Lord — eont.
at Beriin, Ixv, 403, 403 n2 ; at
Cassel, 406.
Dalton, Captain John, 61 wl.
D'Arcy, Robert, Earl of Holdernesse, 6.
DarreU, Lionel ; note on, 80 ml ; G.
Vansittart's partner, 93, 112 ;
mentioned, 80, 92, 92 »2.
Darlington, Henry Vane, Earl of,
292 nl.
Darvall, Roger, 214, 214 ral.
DarvaU, Mrs., 79.
Daniell, James ; Chief at Cuddalore,
xxix ; member of Council, lix,
371, 374 ; leaves India, lix, 380,
381, 386, 392; letters from,
208, 221 ; note on, 208 Ji4 ;
Chief at Maaulipatam, 363,
363 ?i3; eulogy of, 363, 364;
accused by Sadleir, 380 ;
nominated to succeed as Gover-
nor, 386.
Daniell, Mr., 173.
Dashwood, Hannah, 73 n2.
Dasu Reddi, Dessoo Reddy, 41.
Davidson, Alexander ; provisional
Governor, lix, Ix, 371, 373, 374 ;
administration of, Ix, 386, 392 ;
visits Bengal, 73 ; note on,
73 Til ; member of a Committee,
264, 264 n3 ; second in a duel,
359 nl ; President, Board of
Revenue, 413 ; mentioned, Ixi,
Ixii, 391.
Davidson, John, 46, 46 w2, 50, 50 n5.
Dawk (dak), 238, 238 n2.
Dawson, George ; opposes Walajah,
246 ; note on, 246 n3 ; member
of Circuit Committee, 268 ;
resigns, 279 ; mentioned, 94,
135, 255, 259, 270, 278.
Day, Sir John, 317, 317 ra3.
De Beck, Captain. See Beck, Captain
de.
De Castro. See Castro.
De Morgan. See Morgan.
De Paiba. See Paiba.
De Souza. See Souza.
Deccan, The ; Subahdar of, viii ;
capital of, 1 ; provinces of, 1 m3.
De la Bourdonnais ; capture of Madras
by, xxxiv, 17 nl, n 4, 83 nl.
De la Metric, Quintin, 79 n2.
Delhi, Delly, Dilly ; threatened by the
Abdali, xvi, 40, 40?i2, 45;
occupied by the Marathas, xxiii ;
is delivered to the Mogul, xxiii,
xxvi, 165, 193 ; the Mogul's son
escapes from, Iv ; Sindia's power
at, Iviii, 368, 369 ; the Mogul to
be restored to, 110 ; threatened
434
Delhi, Delly, Daly— cont.
by Kasim Ali, 156 ; King of,
207, See Mogul ; threatened
by Marathas, 237.
Dent, Captain, R.N., 158.
Dent, Cotton Bowerbank, 247 nl.
Des Plans, Henriette, 396.
Des Plans, Colonel Jean ; his will,
Ixiv, 396 ; note on, 396 n2.
Des Plans, Mrs. Maria Victoriana, 396.
Des Plans, Marie Elizabeth, Ixiv, 396,
397.
Des Plans, Ursule, 396.
Dessoo Eeddy (Dasu Reddi), 41.
Desvoeux, Charles, 174, 174 »].
Devikota ; Renter of, xvii, 97 ; troops
sent to, 4 ; Chief at, 113 m1.
Devon ; proposed History of, Ixiii, 385,
420.
Dewanny, dewaunee. See Diwani.
D'Pries, John. See Fries, John de.
Diamond Merchants ; association of,
73, 76, 90 ; of Guzerat, 76.
Diamonds ; remittances by, xxxviii,
21, 21 m2, 73 ; trade in, 21, 91 ;
quality of, 38, 90 ; scarcity of,
41 ; sales of, 76, 111, 125 ;
export of, 94 ; consignments
of, 124, 139.
Dinajpur, Dinagepore, 113, 134, 272.
Dinapur ; views of, 238.
DindiguJ, Dingigul ; Fullarton's success
in, lii ; restored to Tipu, Iv, 354 ;
Walajah's claim on, 25 ; dis-
posal of, 33 ; transferred to
Mysore, 62.
Directors of the E. I. Company. See
Coui-t of Directors. See East
India Company.
Discount on Company's bonds, Ivii,
lix, 381, 387, 393.
Diseases ; malarial fever, xvii, xxxvii,
160, 161, 223, 261 ; phthisis,
xliii, 304 ; apoplexy, 1, 293 ;
epilepsy, lii, 333—335; small-
pox, 17, 75, 79 ; gout, 68, 76 ;
pestilence after famine, 135,
147 ; liver abscess, 147, 207, 208,
211, 215.
D'lvemois, F. See Ivemois, F. de
Dlwan, duan ; Walajah's, li ; Nizam's,
41, 41 n3 ; chief revenue officer,
207 m2, 233, 233 nl.
Diwani, The ; Calcutta the seat of,
XXV, 192 ; assumed by the Com-
pany, xxvi, 187 ml ; revenues
of, 130 ; mode of conducting,
192 ; Clive obtains grant of , 231.
Diwani Addlat ; civil court, 233, 233 ra6.
Doidge, Henry, 5, 5 n7, 6, 7.
Doll, Mr., 418.
Douglas, William, merchant, 344 ;
letters from, 347, 348, 349.
Douglass, Lieut., li.N., 125.
Doveton, Commander Richard, 53.
Dow, Alexander, xxvi. 203, 203 m2.
Downs, The, 351.
Dowsett, Robert ; at Cuddalore, 56,
57 ; note on, 56 ral ; evades his
creditors, 263, 253 »2 ; returns
from France, 264.
D'Oyly, Sir John. See Oyly.
Drake, Dawsonne, 52, 52 nl.
Draper, Daniel, xxxvii, 271 ni.
Draper, Mrs. Eliza ; her career, xxxvii ;
elopes from Bombay, 255 ra9 ;
sails for England, 271 ; note on,
271 w4.
Draper, Brig. -General Sir William ;
. orders to, 8 ; his career, 8 w4 ;
his Manila expedition, 12 nl,
51 »2, 112 ral.
Dresden, 400.
Drilling, Captain (Captain George
Drinnen), 93.
Droz, Simeon ; buys a filature, Ixi ;
his bond, Ixi, 384, 387, 409;
note on, 384 m2 ; Chief at
Cossimbazar, 408 ; letter from,
408; visits Bath, 408.
Droz, Mrs. (Simeon), 408.
Duan. See Diwdn.
Dubash, Governor's, 296.
Dublin; Breda Street in, 166; T.
Maunsell in, 352.
Duff, Captain Patrick, 229, 229 n4,
230.
Dumont, Mr., 398, 399.
Dunchideock, ix, x, x nl.
Dundonald, Thomas Cochrane, Earl of,
91, 91 nl.
Dunning, John, sen., 246, 245 nl.
Dunning, John ; introduction to, 136 ;
note on, 136 ?j4 ; L. Sulivan's
mortgage to, 188, 188 nl ; his
popularity, 242, 242 nl ; his
India stock, 242 ; created Lord
Ashburton, 135 n4, 245 nl.
Duntze (John ?), 405.
Dupleix, Joseph, Marquis de ; recall
of, xi ; imposes forged docu-
ments, xxxii, 60, 97 nl ; repudi-
ates De la Bourdonnais' terms,
17 n4.
Du Pr6, Alexander, 137.
Du Pr6, Josias ; a member of Council,
xii, 78 ; negotiates with Haidar,
xiv, 42 n2, 106 ; his views on
the war, xvi, xvi nl , 101 ; his
career, xix, 30 nl ; succeeds
Bourchier, xix, 60, 104, 104 n2,
115, 122; his difficulties, xx,
435
Du Pr6, Josias — cont.
132, 136, 138, 139, 144, 147;
maintains neutrality, xxi, 125,
172, 174, 178 ; L. siilivan hopes
to succeed, xxii, xxv, 186 ;
much harassed, xxiii, 156 ;
refuses to assist the Marathas,
xxiv, 172 ; returns to England,
xxix, 198, 210, 211, 212, 214,
218 ; arrives in India, 30, 78 ; his
marriage, 30 Jil ; to supersede
Call, 59, 59 vZ ; T. Palk meets
75, 75 m2 ; hostile to military
authority, 100 ; to be relieved
by Hastings, 100, 100 n\, 102 ;
letters from, 101, 137, 172, 198 ;
his advice regarding America,
102; his abilities, 116, 116 ral,
126, 129, 181 ; expects censure,
140 ; his orders to Fletcher,
163 n.2, 208, 209, 214, 215 ; his
successor, 171, 175, 207, 210;
his Tanjore expedition, 172,
175; praise of, 178, 181, 195,
196, 214 ; refuses to ask favours,
184 ; is friendly to Goodlad,
194 ; resignation of, 195, 196,
198, 210; complaint to, 195;
resents Harland's discourtesy,
201 ; disputes in his Council,
209, 212 ; letter for, 219, 220 ;
mentioned, 88, 94, 149, 151,
180, 216, 227, 290.
Du Pr6, Mrs. Rebecca, 101, 138, 173.
See Alexander.
Du Pont, Captain Francis, 86.
Durani, Ahmad Shah. See Ahmad
Shah Abdali.
Durbar ; Haidar's, 62 ; etymology of,
62 »1 ; at Patna, 170 ; Council
of, 206 ; at Poona, 369.
Dutch, The ; receive but relinquish
Nagore, xxx, 224 ; their Coast
settlements taken, 1 ; receive
Trincomalee, Iv, Ivii, 372 ;
waning power of, Ivii, 372 ;
their claim settled, 237 ; their
Malabar settlements, 311 ; their
Malay war, 372. See Holland.
Dynagepore. See Dinajpur.
East India Company, The ; L. Suli-
van's" influence in, xiii; inter-
ference by Parliament with,
xix, xxv, xxxi, 105, 143, 213,
222 ; appoint Commissioners for
reform, xx,[l 16 ; uphold Wood's
acquittal, xxi, 162, 171 ; voting
East India Company — cont.
qualification for, xxii, 91 nA ;
split votes of a Proprietor of,
xxii, 91, 91 «4, 127 ; assume
the Diwani, xxvi, 187 »1 ; claim
opium trade, xxvi, xxvii, 231 ;
their orders as to Tanjore,
xxxviii, 267, 279 ; decision
regarding the revolution, xliv ;
bonds of. See Bonds ; financial
position of, Ixi, 372, 386, 393,
401, 415 ; the Investment of.
See Investment ; Directors of.
See Court of Directors ; send
out field ofiicers, 85 ; their views
on the Mysore war, 89 ; their
enquiry into Walajah's debt,
96 ; differences among Directors
of, 101, 111, 123 ; Palk pleads
with, 105 ; India overmanned
by, 123 ; displeasure of, 138,
186,208,267; waning power of ,
143, 144, 145, 177, 329 ; recep-
tion of Bourchier by, 148 ;
ignorance of Directors of, 157,
202, 203 ; mismanagement by,
170, 171 ; Walajah's jealousy of,
177 ; responsible for defence of,
the Camatic, 182 ; stock of. See
Stock; orders regarding Coote,
193 ; orders as to Councillors,
198 ; orders for reforms in
Bengal, 206 ; the tribunal of,
209 ; revoke an order, 226 ;
restrict private trade, 231 ;
charter of, 235, 318; forbid
acceptance of presents, 247 ;
acquire Benares, 249 ; lose
Balambangan, 259, 260 ; Iron-
side's case referred to, 262, 263 ;
appoint Committee of Circuit,
267.
Edington, Colonel James ; arrests Lord
Pigot, xli, 289 ; attempts to
remove Pigot, xlii, 287, 292;
Adjutant-General, 286, 286 n2 ;
charge against, 295 ; verdict
against, 295, 315 m1 ; sum-
moned to Madras, 317.
Editor, Morning Chronicle; letter to, 60.
Edmondes, Captain Edward, 258, 370,
370 n2.
Egerton, Colonel Charles, xlvi, 310 n\.
Egmore Fort, 364, 364 nl.
Egremont, Charles Wyndham, Earl of,
9.
Egypt, xlix, 332.
Eiderabad. See Hyderabad.
" Eliza," Sterne's. (See Draper, Mrs.
Elliot, (Sir) Gilbert, 6.
Ellis, Dr. James, 226.
436
Ellore ; Circar of, 48 ; morals of
officers at, 63 ; Colonel Tod at,
87 ; military headquarters at,
98 ; death of T. Palk at, 156 ;
Madge at, 160; the Palk
brothers moved to, 160 ; troops
at, 258.
Elphinstone, Commander the Hon.
William, 202.
Embassy to Tipu, 351, 351 n2.
Emperor Joseph II., The ; favours a
Genevan colony, Ixv, 395 ; goes
to Luxembourg, Ixv, 398 ; aims
at Silesia, Ixv, Ixvi, 405 ; in
Transylvania, Ixvi, 409.
Engineers, creation of corps of, 161.
England, George, 5.
English Historical Library, Bishop
Nicolson's, 415, 415 nZ.
Ennore, Annoar, 272, 272 «2.
Ensign ; pay of an, 103.
Erode, 71 jil, 114 »5.
Esterhazy, Prince, Ixv, 400.
Etaiyapuram, Etavaranj ; Poligar of,
25.
Everet, Mr., 112.
Exchange, Bills of, iii.
Exchange, Rates of ; for pagodas, Ixi,
38, 73, 111, 150, 173, 253, 415,
419 ; for rapees, 6, 386, 387 ;
for Spanish dollars, 170, 173.
Exeter, 123, 171 m4, 231 n\, 375, 388.
Export Warehousekeeper ; Palk as,
viii ; Hastings as, xix, xxxii ;
conducts the Investment, 210.
FabriciUS, Rev. John Philip, 396,
396 ni, 397.
Facey, Lieut. George ; as Ensign,
169, 169 ?i3 ; at Tellioherry,
250, 250 m3.
Factories, 8, 9, 29.
Fairfield, Richard ; note on, 63 ?i5 ;
represents Walajah's creditors,
121, 121 n\ ; mentioned, 63.
False Bay, 163, 164.
Famine in Bengal, xxiii, 131, 132, 135,
137, 147.
Fanam. See Coinage.
Fares, Passenger ; to England, Iviii,
338, 351, 376.
Farm ; AiTack and Toddy, 216, 310 ;
Betel and Tobacco, 234, 235,
310 ; Villages, 310.
Faujdar, fousdar, phousdar, 66, 66 »2,
67, 254, 254 n2.
Faujdari Adalat. See Courts of Justice.
Fay, Anthony and Eliza, xlvii «1,
330 nl.
Faye, M., 375.
Fazil Beg Khan, xxiii, 156, '156 to2.
Fergusson, William ; letter from, 7 ;
note on, 7 n2 ; death of, 142,
142 m2.
Feslau, 399.
Field Deputies ; interference of, xiv,
xvi nl ; in first Mysore war,
xlvi, 71, 317 n4 ; criticism of,
103 ; with Egerton's force, xlvi,
310 nl ; Call as one of the,
22 w4 ; Carnac as one of the,
310 nl.
Filature, Ixi, 387, 408, 409.
Finch, Ensign James, 190, 190 n2.
Finlan, Mr., 166.
Fire, damage by, 328, 376, 377.
PitzGerald, Captain James, 23.
FitzGerald, Captain Robert Villiers ;
kiUed, 87, 87 nl, 95.
FitzGerald, Major Thomas ; his ad-
vance, 23 ; his march from the
Circars, 49, 49 »5 ; sails for
England, 153 ; letter from, 166.
Fitzgerald, Mr., Bengal Artillery, 112.
Pitzroy, Augustus Heiuy, Duke of
Grafton, 263 «2.
Fleming, Lieut. William, 86.
Fletcher, Colonel Sir Robert ; com-
mands Madras army, xxviii,
163, 196, 207, 213, 214; his
previous career, xxviii, 163 tc2 ;
quarrels with Du Pr6, xxix, 215,
217, 221 ; is ordered to Trichi-
nopoly, xxix, 209, 212 ; claims
to go to England, xxix, 212, 214,
216 ; returns to Madras as
C.-in-C, xxxiv., 247, 284, 284 »2;
member of the Majority, xl, 285,
289, 294, 306 ; placed in arrest,
xli, 285, 294, 295, 306; plans
arrest of Pigot, xli ; his illness,
xliii, 286, 295, 304, 309 ; death
of, xliii ; vilifies Bonjour, 50 n2 ;
court-martial on, 207, 207 m3 ;
Du Pr6's measures regarding,
208, 209 ; hopes for Palk's aid,
209 ; is expected at Tanjore,
264, 265 ; corresponds with
Clavering, 287 ; is prosecuted,
307, 309; sails for the Cape,
309 ; verdict against, 315 ral ;
mentioned, xlv, 201.
Fletcher, Lady, 247, 304, 307.
Flint, Lieut. William (jun.), 1.
Flint, Major William (sen.), 25, 26, 68.
Flood, Luke, liv, 353.
Floyer, Mrs. Catherine, 122, 317.
437
Floyer, Charles ; member of the
Majority, xl, 289, 294, 306;
defends his action, xlii ; his
svirmises, xlii, xliii, 299 ; is
fined, xliv ; is re-employed, Ivii,
Ux, 363, 381, 386, 392; his
kindness to the Palks, 113,328;
note on, 113 ra6 ; goes to Eng-
land, 180, 180 »2, 317 ; letter
from, 298 ; verdict against,
315 rel ; mentioned, 314.
Fochon, M., 225. See also Foucault.
Fonseca, Fra. Salvator de, 10.
Forbes, Admiral the Hon. John, 6.
Forde, Colonel Francis ; a Commis-
sioner, XX, 116, 117 ; note on,
116 n5.
Fordyce, Rev. Francis, v.
Forest, Mrs., 188.
Fort Marlborough, 17 rel, n4, 214.
Fort St. David ; R. Palk at, v ; seat
of Government at, v ; S. Law-
rence at, X ; taken by the
French, xii, xxx, 63 re5 ; Deputy
Governor of, xxx ; defences of,
22 n4 ; farmed villages of, 310 ;
mentioned, 17 rel, 129, 248 re5.
Fort St. George, Madras ; restored by
the French, v ; the seat of
Government, v ; garrison of, x ;
Lally's siege of, xix, xxxv,
xxxviii, 8 re4, 171 re3 ; Walajah
acqviires houses in, xxxiv, 247 ;
water supply of, xxxv, 171 n3,
315 re3 ; Palk's house in, xxxv,
208, 208 rel, 251 ; new defences
of, xxxv, xl, xlv, 199 rel , 255,
314 re3, 315, 329; the Fort
House of, xli, 265 ; Town
Major of, 49 re4, 277 re2, 294 ;
Barker's drawing of, 112 rel ; T.
Palk lives outside, 299 ; the
Fort Square in, 257, 258, 289 ;
proclamation in, 286, 289 ;
Governor's military powers in,
300; streets in, 326 re2. See
also Madras.
Fort William, Calcutta ; the seat of
Government, 157, 215, 219,
227 ; defences of, 188 ; men-
tioned, 172, 202, 203.
Fortifications ; of Madras, xxxv, xl,
xlv, 18re5, 174 rel, 255, 315;
cost of, xlviii, 329 ; of Fort St.
David, 22re4.
Foster, Mr. WiUiam, Ixvii.
Foucault, M., 225 re2, 235. See also
Fochon, JI.
Fousdar. See Faujdar.
Fowke, Francis ; is prosecuted, xxxiii ;
son of Joseph Fowke, 248 re 5 ;
Fowke, Francis — cont.
is employed, 252.
Fowkf, Joseph ; accuses Hastings, and
is prosecuted, xxxiii ; an in-
former, 248 ; note on, 248 re5 ;
rumour regarding, 252, 252 re2.
Fowke, Randall, 248 re5.
Fox, Henry, 7.
Foxcroft, George, 298 re2.
Francis, Philip ; member of the Su-
preme Council, xxxii ; appeals to
the Judges, xlvi, 319 ; opposes
Hastings, 12 re2 ; is vilified by
Price, 377 re2 ; mentioned, 320,
361 rel.
Fraser, Captain Robert, 147, 147 re2.
Frederick William 11. , of Prussia ; as
Crown Prince, Ixv, 404, 404 rel,
405 ; as King, Ixvi, 409.
Frederick the Great ; at Potsdam, Ixv ;
his critical condition, Ixv, 403,
403 re4, 404; death of, Ixvi,
409.
French prisoners, 325, 325 re5.
French, The ; restore Fort St. George,
V. ; capture Madras, x, 218 re3 ;
support Chanda Sahib, xi ; war
of 1757 with, xii ; hostility of,
XX, 138 ; seize Sadras, xxxiv ;
intrigue with the Marathas,
xlvi, 317, 321 ; war of 1778 with,
xlvi, 322 ; capture Cuddalore,
1 ; peace of 1783 with, li ; hold
Cuddalore and Trincomalee, Iv,
354, 354 re3, 355 ; receive Pondi-
cherry, Ivii, 364 ; deliver up
Cuddalore, Ivii, 364 ; commer-
cial aims of, Ivii, 372 ; troops of,
72, 134, 137, 194, 235, 355 ;
their relations with Haidar, 86,
102 ; their defences at Pondi-
cherry, 93, 110, 311 ; Sadleir's
mission to, 96 re2 ; defeated by
Forde, 116 re5; results of war
ivith, 120 ; poverty of, 123, 148,
174 ; fears in Bengal of, 126 ;
effect of fall of Tanjore on,
165 ; lose Mah6, 176 re3 ; effect
of Treaty of Paris on, 181,
356 ; no risk of attack by,
188 ; their activities, 196,
235 ; their system of govern-
ment, 225 ; capture a ship,
329 ; attack Negapatam, 351 re3 ;
receive villages, 356 ; rumour
of war with, 383.
French East India Company, 380.
Fries, Adrian de, 417, 417 ml.
Fries, John de ; advocates the Suez
route, xxxi, 292, 294 ; his house
of agency, xxxiii, 247 rel ; com-
CC
438
Fries, John de — cont.
ments on the Maratha situation,
XXXV, 249, 252 ; deprecates
export of specie, xxxviii, 252 ;
his account of the revolution,
xl, xliii, 306, 307 ; approves
Madras as the Nawab's domicile,
xlii, 293 ; reports on the
Nawab's finances, xlviii, 327 ;
his estimate of the Council,
xlix, 331 ; his association with
Morse, 90, 90 wl, 195; letters
from, 225, 236, 248, 251, 260,
• 268, 275, 292, 302, 306, 308,
326, 328, 330 ; is agent for Palk,
267 ; is aided by An.ir-ul-
Umara, 305 ; his wide know-
ledge, 332; mentioned, 321.
Frieschmann, Lt.-Colonel Daniel, 121,
121 m4.
Friez, Countess de, Ixv, 399.
Friez, Mr., 195. See Fries, John de.
Fullarton, Colonel William ; his suc-
cesses, lii ; takes Palghat, Iv,
351 ; note on, 351 «3 ; men-
tioned, 106 n5.
Fuller, Thomas, 415.
Gajapati Raz, Cawsepatty Rauz,
367.
Galle, Gol, Point de, 168.
Ganges, River ; the Karamnasa a
tributary of, 187 ra3 ; the river
Godavari named as, 3, 3 n2.
Ganjam ; the Resident in, xxix, xxx,
78 nl, 199 ml, 201, 225 ; situa-
tion in, xxix, xxx, 199, 200 ;
importance of, 148 ; revenue
of, 200, 223; fort at, 200;
grain produce of, 223 ; men-
tioned, Iv, 191, 191 Ml, 362.
Garden House, The Company's ;
Pigot's death at, xliv ; WaJajah
at, 41 ; situation of, 57, 57 to3,
218, 218 »3; Wynch at, 258,
265. See Company's Gardens.
Gardiner, Commander Henry, 203.
Gardner, Captain, 360.
Gee, Captain Michael ; death of, xv,
87, 87 n2, 95 ; his marriage,
79, 79to1, 87.
Gegadevy. See Jegadevi.
Geils, Major Thomas, 360, 360 nl.
Geneva, Ixiv, Ixv, 389, 390, 395.
Genevans ; colony of, Ixv, 39.'i.
Oentleman's Magazine, 406.
George III, King ; receives Palk,
viii, 59 ; letter to, 12 ; men-
tioned, Ixvi.
Germany, Tour in, 378.
Ghauts, Eastern, 184 nl.
Gheriah ; destruction of, x, 5 ra6,
52 m2 ; prize money, 5.
Gibraltar, Ixvi, 412.
Gibson, Mrs. Elizabeth, 394, 394 n2.
See Felling, Elizabeth.
Gibson, Captain Thomas ; his sons,
Ixii, 394 ; his marriage, 247 nl ;
note on, 394 n2.
Gifts from natives ; order regarding,
xxxiv, 247.
Gingee (Jinji) ; Raja of, 4 ; journey
to, 17 ; intended removal of
Pigot to, 289.
Ginghams. See Textiles.
Glover, Commander Alphonsus, 7.
Goa, 10, 61. 252.
Godavari River ; called Ganges, 3,
3ra2.
Goddard, Jane, 17 ni, 83 nl. See
Morse, Jane.
Goddard, Colonel Thomas ; supersedes
Leslie, xlvi, 328 «5 ; his ex-
pedition to Surat, xlvi, 147 m4,
328 ra5 ; operates against the
Marathas, xlix, 329 ; is re-
inforced, 328.
Godeheu, Charles Robert, 60.
Godown, 5, 5 mlO, 208.
Goertz, Count de, Ixvi, 398, 399, 412.
Gokal Tarvadi, diamond merchant,
21, 21 re3, 34, 34 m2, 35, 73.
Gol. See Galle.
Goloonda ; situation of, 1 nZ, 2 ;
King of, 10 nl ; Subah of, 89.
See also Subah.
Golden Rook, xi.
Qomaata, xxxii, 210, 210 w.2.
Gombroon, 5, 5 m2.
Goodlad, Anthony ; in Bengal, 163 ;
letters from, 172, 208, 215,
222 ; mentioned, xxix, xxxi,
272, 272 ml.
Goodlad, Richard ; expected appoint-
ment of, 123, 123 m3, 155;
embarkation of, 148, 148 m3,
150 ; illness of, 215 ; at Pumea,
222; letter from, 272; note
on, 272 nl ; mentioned xxix.
Goodlad, William Martin ; a Secretary
to Government, iii, xii ; des-
cribes Haidar's ravages, xvi,
95 ; arranges the affairs of
Rayalu Pant, xvii, 108, 163 ;
comments on the situation, xx,
xxi, 109, 125, 145 ; his views
on Wood's dismissal, xxi, 121,
439
Goodlad, William Martin — cont.
162 ; his opinion eis to Tanjore,
xxiii, 155, 156, 162 ; his views
on the Plenipotentiary, xxiv,
186 ; his death, xxix, 209, 210,
215 ; his estate, xxix, 211, 212,
215, 216, 258, 260, 266, 364,
410, 419; letters to, 14, 59,
68, 90, 91, 92, 96, 111, 129,
148, 149, 154, 157, 169, 170,
185 ; note on, 14 ral ; letters
from, 39, 52, 77, 94, 109, 119,
125, 145, 152, 155, 161, 164,
166, 177, 179, 185, 186, 193,
196 ; his association with J.
Johnson, xxix, 45 n7, 211; coral
consignments for, 46, 46 to3 ;
supplies copies of docmnents,
52, 52 ?!3, 79 ; trains T. Palk,
81, 91, 135, 202; his sorrow
for H. Mackay, 82 ; agent for
Palk, 96, 111, 195, 196; his
aspirations, 110, 166, 186;
trains Griffiths, 117 ; his length
of service, 165, 194 ; his
prospects, 195 ; recommended
for Council, 198 ; Ulness of,
207, 208, 210, 211, 214;
appreciation of, 211 ; Palk's
friendship for, 222 ; mentioned
xviii, 73, 73 ni, 115, 191,
272 nl.
Goodlad, Mrs. ; rates of interest for,
39; letter to, 149; bUls of
exchange on, 179, 180 ; her
affliction, 21 6 ; mentioned,59, 90.
Goodlad, :\Iiss, 59, 90.
Goods, English, 231.
Goordass, Rajah. See Gurdas, Raja.
Gooty (Guti) ; besieged by Haidar,
XXXV, 270, 270 w4 ; Chief of,
33 ?i4, 87 n2.
Gopal Hari Pant, 24, 24 w4.
Gopal Rao, 136.
Gordon, Colonel Robert ; occupies
Salsette, xxxiv, 250 ; letter
from, 250 ; note on, 250 nl ;
his difference with Bombay,
251 , mentioned, xxxv, xxxvi.
Gough, Richard, author and anti-
quarian, 415.
Government bonds. See Bonds, Com-
pany's.
Government House, Madras, 218 m3.
Government of Bengal, Madras, &c.
See Council, Bengal, &c.
Government, Supreme. See Council,
Supreme.
Governor of Madras ; his military
powers, 276, 300; need for
definition of his powers, 307 ;
dimier party of, 328.
Grafton, Augustus H. Fitzroy, Duke
of, 263 n2.
Graham, John ; at Murshidabad, 130 ;
tours with Hastings, 206,
206 nl ; at Marseilles, 292.
Graham, Phoebe, 73.
Grain ; prohibition of export of,
226, 231.
Granary, Company's, 325 n5.
Grand Cairo ; mails via, 292, 294, 306,
See Cairo.
Grant, John. 338.
Grant, Major, 230.
Grattan, Major John, 359 nl.
Gray, George ; envoy to Haidar, xlvii,
330, 330 to3.
Greenwich, Vansittart's house at, 102.
Gregorie, Commander Charles, 411.
Grenada estate, 243.
Grenville, General, 407.
Griffith, Mr., 281.
Griffiths, Rev. Charles ; death of, 72,
76, 78, 104; notes on, 72 re3,
76 ral ; his sons, 234 nl ;
mentioned, 117 rel, 184.
Griffiths, Frederick ; letters from, 234,
246 ; note on, 234 nl.
Griffiths, Henry; is commended, 117,
117 ml, 125, 140, 184; Hast-
ings's interest in, 203, 204, 226 ;
letters from, 204, 226; intro-
duces his brother, 234, 234 n2 ;
mentioned, 246.
Griffiths, William(i) (Frederick Wil-
liam ?), 184, 226, 234 nl.
Griffiths, Mrs., 76.
Gruff goods, 7 «3, 8, 8 nl.
Gruffees, 7, 7 ?i3.
Guelder, Province of, 412.
Gumpertz !i. Hymans, Messrs. 111.
Guntur Circar ; ruled by Basalat
Jang, viii, 23 n6 ; transferred
to the Company, xlvii ; rented
by Walajah, xlvii, xlviii, 327 ;
to be restored to Basalat, 1 ;
Floyer at, 113 ?i6; expedition
to, 264 h5 ; mentioned 248 m3.
Gurdas, Raja, 206.
Gurrington, 245 re2, 357 n2.
Gustavus Adolphus, of Sweden, 399.
Gutty. See Gooty.
Guzerat ; diamond merchants of, 76 ;
expedition to 147 w4.
GwaUor ; capture of, xlix, 1.
Probably identical with Frederick Griffiths, mentioned above.
440
Habeas Corpus ; writs of, 287, 293,
295.
Haidar Ali ; causes of first war with,
viii, 61 ; mission of Andrews
to, ix, 78 nl ; confederacy
against, xiii, 22, 32, 41, 47 ;
progress of first war with,
xiv, 23ral, 49, 74, 77, 81, 87,
88, 90, 93, 94, 95, 105, 199;
ravages the Carnatic, xiv, xvi,
94, 95, 97 ; signs treaty at the
Mount, xiv, xvi, 30 ral, 42 to2,
99, 104, 106 ; his relations with
Walajah, xiv, xlvii, 145, 183,
184, 256 ; his hostility to the
British, xx, 138 ; is attacked
by the Marathas, xxi, 61 ;
question of British aid for, xxi,
120, 142, 162, 178, 181, 183;
reduces Malabar, xxxii, 61 ;
attacks Basalat Jang, xxxv,
259, 264 ra5, 270; captures
Morari Rao, xxxv, 270, 311 ;
his overtures repelled, xlvii ;
seizes British passengers, xlvii,
329, 330, 330 nl ; attitude of,
xxxvi, xlviii ; Gray's mission
to, xlvii, 330; Rumbold
quarrels with, xlviii ; joins a
confederacy, xlix ; second war
with, 1, 96 tc2, 310 n2 ;
devastates the Carnatic, 1 ;
annihilates BaiDie's force, 1,
317 n2 ; Coote's operations
against, 1, 8 ra5, 352 ml ; his
relations with the French, li,
102; his death, li, lii, 336,
336 k3 ; popularity of, Ix, 393 ;
at Seringapatam, 24, 47, 49,
153 ; British policy towards,
25, 125, 137, 142, 145, 178, 181,
183 ; Call's plan of operations
against, 31 ; raids Madras, 57,
57 ?i4 ; his intrigues, 61 ; courts
the Nizam, 62 ; is tributary to
the Nizam, 63 ; retreats, 69 ;
sportively called The Hydra,
Hydro, Hydro Naigue, 71, 83,
83to8, 89, 93, 102, 135; his
downfall expected, 72 ; attacks
at Mulbagal, 88, 89 ; Directors
disapprove of war with, 89 ;
Palk's comments on first war
with, 96 ; victorious in first
war, 101 ; his mother, 106 ?i4 ;
Nizam settles with, 111 ;
captur?H Erode, 114 w5 ; Hast-
Haidar Ali — cont.
ings's comments on, 116 ; his
war with the Marathas, 116,
119, 120, 125, 132, 134, 136,
152, 155, 165, 174, 175, 178,
194, 196, 213; pursuit of,
166 ml ; makes peace with the
Marathas, 194, 196 ; his aims
against Travanoore, 196, 252,
311 ; negotiates with Raghoba,
235, 237, 252 ; his attitude to
the Marathas, 280, 311 ; be-
sieges Vellore, 365 n2 ; his
conquests, 393 ; his son Tipu,
414.
Haidamagar, 49 n2.
Haldon ; purchased by Palk, ix, 135,
135 m2 ; former owners of, ix ;
improvements at, ix, 385, 404 ;
conference at, ix, 189 ?i2 ; T.
Palk, jun. arrives at, Ixii, 372 ;
Palk at, 149, 193, 375, 378,
381 ; mentioned, 169, 231,
243, 244, 254, 260, 261.
Haliburton, David, 413, 413 k4.
Hall, Commander Richard, 245, 245 n5.
Hall, Commander Sober ; aids Burt,
liv, 343, 345, 347, 351 ; letters
from, 344, 348, 350 ; mentioned,
346.
Hamilton, William, 413, 413 n6.
Hammick, Sir Murray, Ixvii.
Hancock, Mrs. Philadelphia, 124, 139.
See Austen.
Hancock, Dr. Tyso Saul, 124, 124 nl,
1.30, 130 »i3.
Hanover, City of, 6.
Harland, Admiral Sir Robert ; arrives
'as Naval C.-in-C. and Pleni-
potentiary, xxiv, 159, 181 ;
threatens the Council, xxiv, 182;
note on, 154 ral ; his powers,
165, 181, 185 ; reinforcement
for, 171 ; his attitude to Du
Pr6, 178, 179, 181, 194, 201 ;
his intimacy with Walajah, 182 ;
supports Walajah's claims, 224 ;
mentioned, xxxvi.
Harper, Colonel Humphrey ; occupies
Tanjore fort, xxxix, 269 ;
marches on Adoni, xlvii ;
ordered to Tanjore, 264 ; note
on, 264 m5 ; with Pigot at
Tanjore, 280, 280 n2.
Harris, Sir James, Ixvi, 412, 412 nl.
Harrison, John) 15, 15 nl.
Hart, Colonel Simon ; his expedition
from the Circars, xiii, xv, 66 ;
note on, 66 nl ; his retirement
expected, 85 ; is superseded, 87 ;
is expected at EUore, 115.
441
Haatenbeck, 6 nS.
Hastings, Warren ; his agents in Eng-
land, iv nl, xxxix, 189 n2 ; his
correspondence, iv, iv nl ; his
provisional resignation, x, xlv,
189 »2, 252 ra3 ; his early service,
xix, 116 ra6 ; his service at
Madras, xix, 100, 100 nl, 102,
104, 104 Ji2, 107, 117, 132, 156,
173 ; Governor of Bengal, xix,
XXV, 157, 174, 179, 187; his
view of the situation, xx, 116,
140 ; expects invasion of the
Camatic, xxi, 116 ; his opinion
as to Wood, xxi, 117 ; is over-
worked, xxiv, 156 ; his reforms
in Bengal, xxv, xxvi, 112 nl,
191, 192, 206, 207, 231, 238 ;
his guiding principles, xxvi,
192 ; relations with the Nawab
Vizier, xxxi, 222, 228, 238;
reforms the plan of Invest-
ment, xxxii, 210 »2 ; becomes
Governor-General, xxxii ; his
Council, xxxii, 12 n2, 240, 246,
254, 262, 273, 282; charges
against, xxxiii, 248 n5 ; secures
a majority, xliii, 309, 312 ;
consults the Judges, xlvi, 319,
319 nl, n2, 320 ; sends a force
across India, xlvi ; opposes.
Eumbold, xlvii ; his able
diplomacy, 1 ; his difierences
with Macartney, li ; deposes
the Eaja of Benares, li ; his
treaty with Sindia, li ; his
settlement of Oudh, Iv ; meets
the Mogul's son, Iv, 354 ; his
consideration for the natives,
Iviii, 357 ; his departure, Ixviii,
lix, 263 w2, 361, 362, 368, 369 ;
his Calcutta bank, Ixi, 394 nS ;
admits Minor Cadets, Ixii, 394 ;
letters from, 116, 123, 125, 139,
140, 191, 202, 219, 227 ; com-
ments on the peace with Haidar,
116; his kindness to the
Griffiths brothers, 117, 140,
226, 234 ; consigns diamonds,
124, 125 ; his relations with
Palk, 129, 138, 139 ; praise of,
138, 179, 203, 204, 222, 358;
Walajah's sentiments towards,
140; sails for Bengal, 173, 179;
his kindness to H. Vansittart,
jun., 180, 190; his considera-
tion for E. Palk, jun., 187, 226;
corresponds with L. Sulivan,
191, 208 ; negotiates Treaty of
Benares, 227, 227 n2 ; supports
Walajah, 305 ; on tour, 354,
Hastings, Warren — cont.
358, 361, 362 ; petition to, 367 ;
characterizes Macpherson and
Stables, 379 ; his return to
India desired, 383 ; mentioned,
xiii, xxii, 115, 154, 196, 216,
230, 292, 297, 310, 320, 332 wl.
Hatley, James, 368.
Hats, 231, 254.
Hawke, Admiral Edward, 7, 7 nl.
Hay, George, 6.
Hay, James ; at Trichinopoly, 176,
176 n2, 283 ; goes to England,
235; note on, 235 ra2 ; his
dubash, 278, 278 nl.
Headborough, iv, viii.
Heard, Sir Isaac ; Garter King of
Arms, Ixvi, 407 nl ; mentioned,
. 407, 408, 411.
Helling, Mr. ; arrives at Madras, 68 ;
is recommended, 69 ; delivers
seeds, 90 ; obtains a ship, 94 ;
Goodlad's attention to. 111.
Henley, Sir Eobert, 6.
Herbert, John, 259, 259 k2.
Heron, Commander George, 19 nl.
Herries, Sir E.. & Co., 408.
Heskett (Hesketh ?) Mr., 415.
Hesse ; Prince of, 6 ; Landgrave of,
406.
Hessman, Mrs., 317.
Heyer Ally, 77. See Haidar Ali.
Hijili, Ingerlee, 122.
Hill, Mr., 220.
Hinchman, Thomas, 338.
Hircarrah (harlara), messenger, spy,
123, 123 Ml.
Hodges, James ; letter from, 248 ;
note on, 248 nl ; at Masuli-
patam, 393, 393 nl.
Holdernesse, Eobert D'Aroy, Earl of, 6.
Holkar, xlix, Ix.
Holland ; war with, 1 ; prosperity of,
Ixvi ; tour in, 412 ; See also
Dutch, The.
HoUes, Thomas Pelham, Duke of
Xewoastle, 7.
Hollond, Edward John, 413, 413 7i5,
418.
Hollond, John ; envoy to the Nizam,
xlvii, xlviii ; will succeed Morse,
103 ; his marriage, 122 ; notes
on, 122 nl, 373 nl ; on special
duty, 264, 264 n3 ; expected
as Governor, 370, 370 n4, 373 ;
mentioned, 413 n5.
Hollond, William, 92, 92 n3, 93, 112.
Holwell, Elizabeth, 252 n4.
Holwell, John Zephaniah, 252 n4.
Honavar, Onor, li, 33, 33 n3, 96.
Hooker's Survey, 406.
442
Hopkins, Amelia, 113 »1. See Smith,
Mrs. Amelia.
Hopkins, Charles, 113 nl, 220 ?i3.
Hopkins, Mrs. Phyllis, 220, 220 »i3.
See Bright.
Hopkins, Sarah, 83 n5.
Horace ; quotation from, 230.
Hornby, William, 282, 282 ?i3.
Home, Major Matthew ; has custody
of Lord Pigot, xl, xlii, 286, 287,
289, 292, 295, 300, 306; as
Brig. -Gen. at Aroot sells arrack,
Ivi, 362, 363 ; commands
Artillery, 286, 300, 306 ; verdict
against, 315 n\ ; ordered to
Madras, 317.
Home, R., 63.
Hosur, 166 n\.
Hough, Commander, 5.
Hough, Commander Samuel, 190,
190 nl.
Hough & Spencer, Messrs., 5, 6.
House of Agency, Morse's, xii, xxxiii,
44, 88, 90ral, 103, 119.
House of Commons ; speeches in, xxv,
186, 193 ; petition to, 377.
Howe, Commander Thomas, 44.
Huckenbar, 3. See Akbar.
Hudleston, John, lii, 355, 355 nl.
Hughes, Admiral Sir Edward ; escorts
Councillors, xxxiii, 273 ; com-
mands the squadron, xxxvi,
330 ; comments on the Puran-
dhar Treaty, xxxvi, 273 ; sym-
pathizes with Walajah, xxxviii,
xxxix, 273 ; Walajah claims
protection of, xl, 276 ; confers
with Majority about Pigot, xlii,
290, 302 ; his opinion as to
Tanjore, xlii, 302 ; his relief
by Vernon, xlvi, 302 ; relieves
Vernon, xlviii, 330 ; is com-
mended, xljx, 333 ; takes
Trincomalee, 1, 330 h5 ; engages
Suffren, 1, lii, 336 H) ; his flag-
ship, 254 nl ; sails for the
Malabar coast, 255, 258, 266,
354, 359 ; discipline of his
cadets, 256 ; letters from, 263,
273, 301, 312 ; communicates
with Walajah, 275 ; commends
Welland, 263, 263 ?il, 273,
273 nl, 301 ; his conduct
criticized, 294 ; his duties at
Bombay, 301 ; his correspond-
ence with Palk, 305 ; returns
from Ceylon, 312 ; his civility
to S. Sulivan, 331 ; mentioned,
xliii, 288, 296, 297.
Hughes, Lady, 302.
Humberstone, Colonel Mackenzie, li.
Humphry, Ozias ; painter, lix ; letter
from, 369 ; note,on, 369 »2.
Hungary ; excursion into, 399.
Hungerford, 168.
Hunter, Thomas Orby, 6.
Hussain Ali, 201.
Hyde, John, 320.
Hyderabad ; threatened from the
Circars, xiv, 87 ; HoUond as
Resident at, xlvii, 122 nl ;
Colonel Smith at, 23 ; CaiUaud
at, 47 ; Mahfuz Khan deputed
to, 62 ; Treaty of. See Treaties ;
Nizam's weakness at, 67 ; re-
ported embassy to, 88 ; Ragho-
ba threatens, 235 ; Nizam
retreats to, 401.
Hydra, The, Hydro, Hydro Xaigue ;
sportive for Haidar Ali, q.v.
Hydrographer, 257 n2.
Ichchapur, Itchapour, 199, 200.
. Ideford, 402.
Uheos, Rio dos, 163.
lUahabad, lUiabad. See Allahabad.
Ilsington, v.
Impey, Sir Elijah, xxxiii, xliv, 320.
India ; intervention of the Home
Government in, xix, xx, 143 ;
laws for, xxvi, 203.
India Act ; protest against, Iviii, 373,
373 ra2, 377, 377 nl ; disregard
of, 394 ; repeal of part of, 410 ;
mentioned, 388.
India BiU, Pitt's, Ivii, 362.
India House, The ; differences at. Ill ;
lack of wisdom at, 169 ; men-
tioned, 84. See East India
Company.
India Stock. See Stock.
Ingeram, 96 n2.
Ingerlee. See HijOi.
Inoculation, 79.
Inquest, xliv.
Inquisition, The, xxxv, 256.
Insurance ; of country vessels, 221,
341 ; rates of, 221 ; cost of
Palk's, 237 ; premiums, 239.
Interest, Rates of, xxv, 27, 39, 146.
Interpreter, Company's, 97 nl.
Invalid List, 167.
(1' Vide p. 459, note 1, and p. 472, note 1.
448
Investment, The Company's ; nature
of, xii, 18 rs4 ; system recast,
xix, xxxii, 210 ; lack of funds
for, hx, 381 ; at Madras, 19,
41, 136, 152 ; at Vizagapatam,
29, 36, 46, 50; at Cuddalore,
55, 70, 221; for the Circars,
165 ; trade forbidden in articles
of, 234 ; mentioned, 126.
Ipplepen, v.
Ironside, Edward, 124 m2.
Ironside, Mrs. Elizabeth, 346.
Ironside, Gilbert, sen., Bishop of
Bristol, XX vi, 124 n2.
Ironside, Gilbert, jun., Bishop of
Bristol, xxvi, 124 n2.
Ironside, Colonel Gilbert ; procures
native law-books, xxvi, 158,
187, 203 ; charges against,
xxxiii, 262 ; reports Clavering's
usurpation, xlv, 319, 320 ; re-
mits by diamonds, 124 ; note
on, 124 n2 ; fears supersession,
130, 130 ra4 ; letters from, 157,
187, 203, 230, 262, 318; his
merits, 169 ; his prospects,
187, 230 ; mentioned, xiii.
Ironside, Mrs. Letitia ; anives in
India, xxvi, 230 ; diamonds
for, 124, 139; is related to
General Lawrence, 124 ; Palk's
civility to, 157, 187 ; is charged
with oriental MSS., 158 ; letter
from, 168; her brother, 262;
mentioned, 346 nl.
Irsappa Chetti, Irshapah Chitty ;
Company's Merchant, 56, 70 ;
accompanies Pigot, 277, 280 ;
visits Trichinopoly, 278.
Irwin, Eyles, 372, 372 nl.
Island, The, at Madras, 286, 289.
Islands, The ; French troops at, 72,
171, 194 ; note on, 72 nl ;
warlike preparations at, 126.
Isle of Bourbon (Reunion), 72 nl.
Isle of France (Mauritius), 72 nl. See
Mauritius.
Itchapour. See Ichchapur.
Ivemois, Francois de ; tours with L.
Palk, Ixiii ; advises departure
from Switzerland, Ixiv, 378, 385 ;
letters from, 378, 382, 384, 390,
397, 399, 405, 406 ; his financial
statements, 382, 390, 391 ; at
Constance, 395 ; at Vienna, 397 ;
at Brunswick, 405 ; at Pyrmont,
406 ; mentioned, Ixv, Ixvi, Ixvii,
389, 409, 412.
Ives, Dr. Edward, 6, 6 n2.
Ives, Edward Otto ; civil servant, 233.
Jackson, Commander Joseph, 83.
Jackson, William ; letter from, 135 ;
note on, 135 7i3 ; special duty
of, 363 ; goes to China, 413.
Jafar Ali Khan, Jaffier All Cawn (Mir
Jafar), 126 re5, 191, 206.
Jainabandi, zummabundy, 133, 133 n2.
James, (Sir) William ; Commodore
of the Bombay Marine, 5, 6.
James, Robert ; letter from, 13.
Jamseylon, Junkseylon, 10, 10 »2. jSee
Ujung Salang.
Jangama Chetti, 152, 197.
Jagat Chand, 206.
Jaghire, jaguire, jdgrir. The Company's ;
inspection of, xxxvii, 267,
267 n5 ; rented by Walajah,
xlviii, xlviii nl, 325 ; money
lent in, 146 ; note on, 146 n3 ;
survey of, 374 »2 ; new can-
tonment in, 391 ; mentioned,
214, nl.
Jagir ; Hussain Ali's, 201 ; proposed,
269; Pvaghoba's, 282.
Jagirdar, jaggeredar, 369.
Jagu Pandit, Jaggoo, Jague, Juggoo,
65, 367.
.Jambukistna Temple, 278.
Jamidar. See Zemindar.
Janogi, Jonadee ; Chief of Kagpore,
92, 93, 93ral.
Jats, Jauts, The ; at war with the-
Marathas, xxvi, 192 ; yield
Agra, xxxi, 238 ; at war with
Oudh, 237, 237 m3.
Jegadevi, Pass of, 34, 44, 44 nl.
Jelmur, JiUmore, 68 n2, 191, 191 nl.
Jejrpur ; taken by Mathews, 261 n2.
JiUmore. See Jelmur.
Johanna, Island of, 151, 151 nl.
Johnson, James ; Goodlad's partner,
xxix,211 ; in Walaj ah' s service,
xxix, 211, 244 ; letter from,
45 ; note on, 45 n7 ; aids
Helling, 90, 94 ; his debts, 211,
212, 216, 222 ; insolvency of,
266 ; mentioned, 59, 59 n4,
Johnson, Commander John, 89.
Johnson, (Ralph ?), 164.
Johnson, Samuel ; supports Walajah,
xxxiv, 246, 246 nlO, 249 ; re-
enters Council, xliv, 313, 314,
314 nl ; his marriage, 210,
210 n3 ; Chief at Vizagapatam,
252, 255 ; member of Circuit
Committee, 268.
Johnson, Lieut., R.N., 134.
Jonadee, 93. See Janoji.
444
Jones, FitzOwen ; letter to, 239.
Jones, John, ix.
Johnstone, George, xxv, 170, 170 ?i3.
Johnstone, John, xxv, 170, 170 nS.
Joseph I., of Portugal, 8, 8 mS.
Joseph II., Emperor, 400, 400 «2.
Jourdan, Francis ; member of the
Majority, xl, 289, 294, 306;
loan to, 54 ; note on, 54 nl ;
a, creditor of J. Johnson, 216 ;
opposes Walajah, 246, 246 ?i6 ;
accompanies Pigot, 276, 276 »2,
277, 280, 283, 296; verdict
against, 315 nl ; mentioned,
255, 281, 314.
Judda (Jedda), 312.
Judge- Advocate, 250.
Judge-Advooate-General, 212.
Judges of the Supreme Court ;
opinions of, xliv, 319 ; arrival
of, 273.
Juggut Chund. See Jagat Chand.
Jury, Coroner's, xliv, 315 nl.
Jury, Grand, 103, 108.
Kadapanattam ; Morari Rao's terri-
tory near, 33 ; position of,
33 k5, 43 nl ; Colonel Call at,
43, 48 ; pass of, 43, 43 nl, 48.
KalaiyarlioU, Calaooil ; slaughter at,
xxviii, 50 k2 ; treasure taken
at, 193 ; Maravar of, 26 ni.
Kallars, CoUeries ; rebellious, 194, 218 ;
note on, 194 nl.
Kandees. See Khandesh.
Kandy, .17 nl.
Karamnasa, Caiamnassah, River, 187,
187 ?i.3.
Karanja, Caranjar ; island of, 280,
280 m6.
Karur ; Haidar at, 61 ; taken from
Mysore, 62 ; seized by General
R. Smith, 113 nl.
Kasim Ali Khan (Mir Kasim) ;
threatens Bengal, xxii, xxiii,
156, 156 ?i3 ; defeated at Buxar,
xlv ; trouble expected with,
122, 122 k2, 126, 126 ?i3.
Kaunitz, Prince ; L. Palk visits, Ixv,
398, 399 ; note on, 398 nl ;
his kindness, 403.
Keating, Colonel Thomas, xxxiv, 251.
Kedgeree, 170.
Keith, Sir Robert Murray, 399, 403,
403 ill.
Kellery inhabitants, 218. See Kallars."
Kelly, Captain Robert ; his conduct,
106 ; note on, 106 n5 ; court-
Kelly, Captain Robert — ami.
martial, on, 114, 115; his son,
406, 406 n3.
Kelsall, Thomas, 45, 45 n2, 168.
Kennaway, Captain John ; with
Pearse's force, Iv, 354, 362 ;
recommended, 171 ; note on,
171 ?i4; illness of, 232, 379;
his service in Oudh, 320 ; letter
to, 369 ; at Benares, 379 ;
mentioned, 226, 315.
Kennaway, Richard ; reduction of his
salary, Iviii, 376, 379 ; recom-
mended, 171, 208, 208 k3 ; note
on, 171 ?i4 ; at Calcutta, 209,
209 ral, 232; illness of, 315;
visits Madras, 315, 316, 320;
acts with H. Vansittart, jun.,
360, 361, 387, 408; advances
money for R. Welland, 369 ;
mentioned, lix, 219, 219 nl,
226, 318, 374, 410.
Keiuiaway, William ; of Exeter,
171 ra4 ; draft on, 231, 231 nl ;
his sons, 282.
Kenton, 171 n3.
Kerjean, Jacques de, xi.
Kesava, Kesavaiya, 94 ; letter from,
154.
Ketch, 332, 332 n2.
Khammamett Combamett, Comma-
mett; capture of, xv, 67 ;
faujdar of, 66 ; march to, 199 ;
mentioned, 64.
Khandesh, 1 ?i3.
Khimedy, 199. See Kimedi.
Khwaja Assam (Hashim ?) Khan, 310,
310 n2.
Kiladar, 264, 264 ni.
Killpatrick, Major James, xi, 418 n4.
Kilpatrick, Captain, 64.
Kimedi ; Zemindar of, xxx, 68 n2,
199. See also Narayan Deo.
King, Commander Richard, 7.
King, , R.N., of H.M.S. Cumber-
land, 5.
Kisnagury. See Krishnagiri.
Kist, instalment, 28, '28 ra6, 236.
236 Ji2.
Kistna River ; crossed by Nizam, Ix,
23, 63 ; a boundary, 2, 2 nl ;
crossing of the, 24, 41, 47, 49 ;
crossed by Mahdu Rao, 152,
153 ; Raghoba crosses the,
237 ; freedom from chant of
states bordering the, 257 ;
crossed by Nizam and the
Marathas, 392 ; Marathas re-
main south of, 402.
Kloster-Zeven, Convention of, 6 n5.
Kolar, Colar ; the army at, xiv, xv, 81,
445
Kolar, Ciolar — ami.
81 nl ; ceded to the Marathas,
xsi ; surrender of, 106.
Kondapalli, Condapillee ; garrison of,
65 ; Lieut. T. Palk at, 114, 136,
151, 153. See Mustafanagar.
Konkan, The, xxxvi, 281 nl.
Kora, Corah ; the Mogul near, 166,
165 nl ; ceded to the Vizier,
227 ra2 ; payment for, 231 ;
note on, 231 to4.
Krishnagiri, 77, 87 nl.
Krishna Rayalu, Raja of Vijayanagar,
3, 4.
Kumara, Comaroo, Comerah, Comroo ;
dubash to Benfield, 278 ; his
intrigues, 278, 283 ; is flogged,
278, 283 ; informs against
Pigot, 291 ; his alleged plot,
303, 304 ; his will, 326.
Kumool, Canoul, Conoul ; Nawab of,
34 ; threatened, 414.
Lack (lakh), one hundred thousand,
27 w5.
Lally, Thomas Arthur, Comte de ;
captures Fort St. David, xii ;
XXX ; his siege of Fort St.
GJeorge, xii, xix, xxxiv, xxxv,
102 nl ; threatens Madras,
83 rel.
Lambert, Sir John, 390.
Lambert, William, 227, 227 m4.
Landreset, M. de, 10.
Lane, Edmund Veale ; condemns
Treaty of Purandhar, xxxvi,
280; his death, Iviii, 368,
368 n2 ; his debt to Palk, Iviii,
281, 368; letters from, 169,
280, 309 ; note on, 169 re2.
Lane, Thomas, 190, 190 nl.
Lang, Lt.- General Ross ; defends
Vellore, 1 ; commands Madras
army, lii, 365 ; postpones de-
parture, Ixiii, 419 ; his marriage,
247 nl ; is superseded, 351 n3 ;
note on, 365 n2 ; letter from,
367 ; his obligation to Palk,
368 ; prepares to sail, 372, 413,
417 ; mentioned, 370.
Lang, jMrs. Ann, Ixii, 372, 411. See
Polling. See Oats.
Lansdowne, William Petty, Marquess
of, 388 ra2, 398.
Larkins, William, 376, 376 wl, 387.
Lathom, Richard ; Chief at Cuddalore,
xii, 304 ; suspended by the
Majority, xlii, 292, 300, 304,
Lathom, Richard — cont.
306 ; note on, 292 »2 ; appre-
ciation of, 304 ; in Council,
306 ; mentioned, 314.
Law ; Muhammadan, xxvi, 158, 187,
203; English, xxxiii.
Law, Ewan, 221.
Law, Frances, 146 nl, 196.
Law, Jacques, xi, 35 n2.
Law, Jean ; Governor of Pondicherry,
xxxii, 35, 137, 137 nl ; super-
.seded by Bellecombe, xliii,
311, 312; note on, 35 »2 ;
abilities of, 174 ; fortifies
Pondicherry, 196 ; governs for
the King, 225 ; stores for, 253 ;
aids the Mogul, 310 nl ; a
prisoner, 325 ; a commissary
to receive Pondicherry, 356.
Law, Jeanne, 210.
Lawrell, James, 130, 206, 206 nl.
Lawrence, Dr., 346.
Lawrence, Major-Gteneral Stringer; his
Narrative, iii, x, x n2, 1-4,
7 nl ; Palk's relations with vi,
vii ; returns to India, viii ;
his death, ix, 259, 259 »3 ;
monuments to, ix ; his career,
x-xii ; C.-in-C. in India, xi, 13,
144 ; his campaigns in Trichi-
nopoly, xi, xlv, 88, 102 nl,
315 ra4 ; his pensions, xii, 11,
11 m3, 13, 126, 173; leaves
India, xii, 12 ; portraits of,
xii ; his failing health, xxxii,
240 ; letter from, 1 ; his march
towards Tanjore, 3, 3 ra4 ; asks
for Palk's services, 3 ; order
to, 8 ; letters to, 13, 58, 213 ;
his native titles, 58 ; his house
plxmdered, 58 ; aided by Palk,
60 ; acts on behalf of the army,
85 ; recommends a cadet, 91,
102 ; is related to Mrs. Ironside,
124 ; his powers, 144, 157 ;
supports Fletcher, 163 m2 ; liis
agent in India, 212 ; his defence
of Madras. 297 ; Walajah's
complaint to, 305 ; Walajah's
bond to, 401, 410, 419 ; men-
tioned, 18, 18 »3, 19, 48, 69,
111, 118, 125, 139, 141, 159,
161, 166, 168, 169, 198, 220,
228.
Lawrence Bagh, 83, 83 nl.
Leadenhall Street {i.e. the India
House) ; politics of, 148 ; Good-
lad's merits reported to, 186 ;
the tribunal of, 209. See India
House.
Lee & Ajrton, Messrs., 111.
Legge, Hon. Henry Bilson, 7.
Leipzig, 402.
Lemaistre, Justice Stephen Caesar,
295, 295 ml, 320.
Lennox, Commander John, 17, 38.
Leslie, Colonel Matthew ; his command ,
xlvi ; tries to supersede Iron-
side, 130, 169, 169 ral ; a
King's officer, 130 ?i4 ; the
Director's opinion of, 169 ; is
superseded by Goddard, 328 n5.
Levy, Mrs. Judy, 63.
Ley, Thomas ; is recommended, 149 ;
a ship's officer, 190, 190 nl ;
goes to China, 220, 222 ; men-
tioned, 163.
Liege, Bishop of, 399.
Light, Hester Eleanora, 72, 72 nl, 78.
Light, William, 72, 72 nS.
Limerick ; the Surprise at, liii, 340,
344, 345 ; Indiamen at, 7 ;
Burt at, 336; effects of R.
Palk, jun., at, 343 ; journey
from, 353.
Lind, Mr., 64.
Lindsay, Admiral Sir John ; Xaval
C.-in-C. and Plenipotentiary.
XX, 132 ; differences with, xx,
132, 136, 136 n2, 137, 138, 139
143, 181 ; supports Walajah,
xxi, 137, 140, 201 ; urges
attack on Tanjore, xxiii, 162
is succeeded by Harland, xxiv,
154 k1, 181 ; his appointment,
xxxix, ] 38 ; his powers, 132
143, 145, 185 ; note on, 132 n2
Ms charges against the Govern-
ment, 156 ; is decorated, 158
is recalled, 165.
Line, Mr., 64.
Linga Chetti, 197 »i4.
Lingappa Chetti, 136.
Lisbon, 13.
Lisle, John Lysaght, Lord, 286 nl.
Loan, New Cavalry, 418, 418 nl.
London Streets, Buildings, &c.
Beruers Street, 339.
Bruton Street, ix, liii, 166, 275,
288, 336, 345-409 passim.
Burlington Street, 13.
Charles Street, St. James's, 304.
Essex Court, Temple, 205.
Essex Street, Strand, 346.
Great Ormond Street, 79.
Jerusalem Coffee House, 239,
239 »1.
King's Road, Gray's Inn, 180.
Lad Lane (now Gresham Street),
345, 345 nl.
Leadenhall Street (India House)
liii, 21, 101, 123, 144, 336.
London Streets, &c.- — cont.
Lombard Street, 386, 388.
Paper Buildings, Temple, 240,
241.
Park Place, St. James's, ix,
■ 170, 188-274 -passim.
Queen Square, 188, 190, 241,
243, 244, 245, 331.
Sise Lane, 82, 159, 170, 180.
Spring Gardens, ix, 59, 115,
122, 166.
Swan vidth Two_ Necks, Lad
Lane, 345.
Loppo, Dom, 10.
Louch, Mr. ; agent for the Surprise,
340, 343, 344; his behaviour,
343, 344, 345 ; his information,
346 ; mentioned, 351, 352.
Louis XV., of France, 8, 8 n&.
Low, Lieut., 328.
Lucknow, Iv.
Lupton, Colonel, 255. See Upton.
Liitzen, Battle of, 399.
Luxembourg, 398.
Lyons, James ; Company's agent at
Limerick, 341 ; letter from,
344 ; supports Baylie, 349 ;
mentioned, 345.
Lysaght, Captain Arthur ; arrests
Lord Pigot, xli, 286, 289 ; note
on, 286 nl ; Town Major, 295 ;
charge agamst, 295 ; engaged
to Miss Pybus, 307 ; in Ganjam,
311; verdict against, 315 >il ;
ordered to Madras, 317 ; at
siege of Pondicherry, 325.
Lysaght, John, Lord Lisle, 386 nl.
Macartney, George, Lord ; arrives
as Governor, 1, 355 n2 ; mi-
willing to give up the Assign-
ment, li ; deports Stuart, li ;
his differences vidth Hastings,
li, Iv, 355 ; his relations with
Walajah, Ivi, 355, 356; his
duel with Sadleu', Ivi, 96 7i2 ;
359, 359 nl, 364 ; his departure,
Ivii, lix, 362, 371 ; his stipend,
Ivii, 364 ; declines the Governor-
Generalship, lix, 373, 374, 383 ;
his dislike of Amir-ul-Umara,
lix, 371 ; petition to, 366 ; his
regard for Sitaram Raz, 367 ;
criticized, 386 ; mentioned,
146 Jil, 365, 370 ?i4, 372.
McGowan, Major John ; his voyage
home, lii, 337 ; his services, lii,
343 nl ; conveys information,
447
McGowan, Major John — cont.
liii, 338 ; his dispute with
Asquith, 341, 342 ; letter from,
343 ; his report, 344 ; men-
tioned, 340.
McGwire, William, 171, 171 re2.
Macintosh, William, 377, 377 nZ.
Mackay, George ; a Field Deputy, xiv,
71, 71 ?i3 ; suspended, xxix,
212, 212 m2, 214, 216 ; member
of the Majority, xl, 289, 294,
306 ; fined, xliv ; at Teneriffe,
17 ; his career, 17 to3 ; bar to
his promotion, 59, 59 «2 ; his
conduct, 217 ; opposes Walajah
246, 246 nl ; his house, 247 ;
member of Circuit Committee,
268 ; refuses a visit, 311 ;
prosecutes Monckton, 315 ;
verdict against, 315 n\ ; men-
tioned, 94, 310.
Mackay, Captain Hector ; takes charge
of T. Palk, XV, 81 ; killed in
action, xvi, 82, 87, 90, 95.
Mackay, Mrs. Sarah, 110, 110 nZ, 123.
See Stratton, Sarah.
Mackintosh, Mr., 6.
McLean, Captain, 78.
Macleane, Colonel Lauchlan ; at the
Haldon conference, ix ; Hast-
ings's agent, xxxix ; Walajah's
agent, xxxix, 244, 268, 274,
274 n3, 275, 305, 312; his
mission to England, xlii ;
tenders Hastings's resignation,
xlv ; his death, xlviii, 326,
326 n\ ; his debt to L. Sulivan,
188, 188 n2, 189, 242, 242 m3 ;
his career, 189 ra2 ; his influence
with the Directors, 302 ; his
executors, 331 ; mentioned, 297.
Macleod, Commander Alexander,
263 »2, 264.
McMahon, Henry ; attorney- at- law,
liv, 347 ; letters from, 346,
347 ; his claim, 348 ; men-
tioned, 350.
McNab, Lieut. Robert, 86.
McNeal, Ensign, 176.
Macpherson, James ; agent for Wala-
jah, Ivi, 355, 356 ; note on,
356 n\.
Macpherson, John ; his career, xxxix,
263 Ji2 ; supports the Majority,
xli, 289 ; goes to England, xliii,
311, 313, 313 nl ; enters the
Supreme Council, Ivi, 356 nl ;
Governor-General, hx, Ixi, 379 ;
his abilities, lix, 379 ; sends an
envoy to Mysore, Ix ; executor
for Goodlad, 211, 211 ra3 ; his
Macpherson, John— cont.
relations with Walajah, 263,
264, 332; is suspended, 264;
is dismissed, 270, 270 n3, 313 ;
his promises to Abraham, 387 ;
favours Scots, 388, 394 ; ex-
pected departure of, 413 ; men-
tioned, xlv, xlix, 310.
Macrae, James, 56, 56 ?i3.
Madagascar ; French preparations in,
126, 134 ; wreck off, 158, 161.
Madapoliam, 29, 78 nl.
Madar-ul-mulk, Madurul Mullock,
Mudar Mulk. See Amir-ul-
Umara.
Madavaraw, Madavarave. See Madhu
Rao.
Madeira; island of, 151, 159, 163,
331, 333 ; wine, xxxv, 38, 113,
141, 173, 185.
Madge, Major Thomas ; in the Circars,
xii, 64, 65 ; joins Hart's ex-
pedition, XV, 66 ; comments on
the peace terms, xvi, 99 ; his
illness, xvii, 161, 223 ; at siege
of Tanjore, xvii, 223 ; death
of, xvii, 232, 245 ; his scheme
to aid T. Palk, xxviii, 202, 218,
219 ; his gift for Monson, 50,
65 ; note on, 50 »6 ; letters
from, 64, 84, 97, 160 ; executor
for Cranch, 77, 86, 150; late
' of 96th Foot, 86; atSamulkota,
115, 151 ; his consideration for
Smerdon, 119 ; operates against
Poligars, 136, 153 ; reports
death of the Palk brothers, 160 ;
losses of his detachment, 161 ;
remittance from, 173 ; ad-
ministers estates of the Palks,
204, 250 ; his estate, 232, 253,
254 ; his children, 249 ; men-
tioned, 82, 87, 100.
Madhu Rao, Peshwa, (Madavaraw,
Madavarave, Mahadarow, Maha-
debrow, Mahadevarow, Mahde-
brow, Maudavarow,Maudharow,
Moderow) ; leads his army
in person, xiii, 23; engages
Haidar, xxi, 23, 116, 116 w2,
136, 142 ; his death, xxxii, 210,
213; fourth Peshwa, 23 n5;
proposed grant for, 34 ; his
successes, 42, 47, 49 ; his
claims, 42 ; negotiations with,
43 ; British attitude towards,
125 ; advances to the Kistna,
152 ; mentioned, 135. See also
Marathas, The.
Madjee Soindy, 309. See Mahadaji
Sindia.
448
Madras ; its capture by the French,
X, xii, 248 n5 ; raided by Haidar
in 1767, xiii, xv, 57, 57 nA,
91 ral ; White Town of, xxviii,
XXXV, 22 »4, 134, 134 ral ;
Black Town of, xxxv, xl, 57,
109 nl,n2, 134, 134 ral, See
Black Town ; fortifications
of, xxxv, xl, 18 n5, 109 nl ;
its Island, xli ; as Walajah's
domicile, xlii, 293 ; its suburbs
raided by Haidar in 1780, 1 ;
devastation around, 1 ; arsenal
and hospital at, 29 ra3 ; Govern-
ment House at, 57 k3, 218 n3 ;
Lally's siege of, 61 nl, 102 nl,
257 re2, 296, 297 ; Town Temple
of, 97 nl ; survey of, 109 n2 ;
sickness in, 147 ; revolution in,
xl-xliii, 282-302. See Port St.
George. See Council, Madras.
Madura ; Muhammad Yusuf's re-
bellion in, viii, xv ; capture of,
XV ; sieges, of, xxx, 61 nl,
199 nl ; first siege of, 12 n2,
26 n3, 61, 61 nl, 81 n2, 167 nl,
365 n2 ; second siege of, 22 n4 ,
52 n4, 61 nl, 63 n4, 82 n2,
166 nl ; cantonment needed
in, 26 ; remains British, 95 ;
Mahfuz Khan's rebellion in,
102 nl ; expedition against
PoKgars of, 176 n3 ; Kallars of,
194 nl.
Mahadaji Sindia ; occupies Delhi,
xxiii ; captures Raghoba, xlvi ;
plans to attack Goddard, xlix ;
Hastings's treaty with, li ; his
power at Delhi, Iviii, 368 ;
captures the pretended Sudaba,
309.
Mahadarow, Mahadebrow, Mahade-
varow, Mahdebrow. See Madhu
Rao,
Mahe ; reduction of, xlvii, 106 n5,
176 n3 ; Camac visits, 310 ?il.
Mahfuz Khan ; his death, xlviii, 329 ;
his rebellion, 61 ; note on,
61 n6 ; deputed to Hyderabad,
62 ; Caillaud operates against,
102 nl ; elder brother of
Walajah, 329, 329 nl.
Mahmud Riza Chan, Mahmud Rizza
Cawn, Mahomed Ryza Cawn.
See Muhammad Raza, Nawab.
Mails ; sent via Suez, xxxi, 282, 292 ;
proposed route for, 294, 306.
Maitland,- Mrs. Jane, 52, 52 n4. See
Morgan.
Maitland, Lieut. Richard, 52 n4.
Majendie, Andrew ; his dispute with
Majendie, Andrew — cont.
Jackson, 83, 83 n4 ; his con-
tempt of court, 103, 103 nl ;
committed to prison, 109 ; his
loan to Walajah, 418 nl.
Mdjumdar, mazoomdar, 365, 365 n5,
366, 367.
Malabar ; reduced by Haidar, xxxii,
61 ; operations in, I ; Mathews
commands in, li ; disposal of
Haidar's conquests in, 33 ;
Company's possessions in, 72 ;
Maratha ship blown up off,
247 ; Hughes sails for, 255, 258,
266, 354, 359.
Malacca, 29.
Malays, The ; capture Balambangan,
264 ; make war on the Dutch,
372.
Malcolm (or Malcombe), Henry, 328,
328 n2.
Maldivias (Maldive Islands), 149.
Malguzari lands, 233, 233 ra8.
Malmesbury, James Harris, Earl of,
Ixvi, 412, 412 nl.
Malwagle, 82. See Mulbagal.
Mangalore ; Campbell's defence of,
li ; surrender of, lii ; Treaty of,
lii, 355, 355 nl ; Peace Com-
missioners at, Iv, 351 n2 ;
Sadleir's mission to, 96 n2 ;
Carnac's death at, 310 nl.
Mangalpetta ; pass of, 23.
Manila expedition ; led by Draper and
Cornish, 8 ?i4 ; Lewin Smith,
with, 28 n3 ; Brooke with, 51,
51 n2 ; R. Barker with, 112 nl ;
Fletcher with, 163 »2 ; Cotsford
with, 199 nl ; mentioned, xxviii,
xxix, 12 nl, n2, 396 n2.
Manila trade ; permission desired for,
19; difficulties of, 53, 74;
Spanish Governor's statement
as to, 73; ships for, 29, 90,
137 ; state of, 152, 154, 173,
216, 254 ; freedom of, 380.
Manimangalam, Munnimunglum, 97.
Mannar Chetti, 136.
Manni Begam, Munny Begum, 191,
206.
Manship, John, 127, 127 n5, 128, 246.
Maphauscawn, 329. <See Mahfuz Khan.
Maps, Rennell's, xxiii, 167.
Marathas, The ; their wars with Haidar,
xiii, xxi, xxxii, 23, 35, 41, 61,
120, 125, 132, 134, 137, 153,
155, 165, 175, 280, 311 ; fears
in the Carnatic of, xxi, xxxii,
48, 116, 120, 152, 155. 162, 172,
175, 177, 178, 184, 237, 238; the
Mogul joins, xxiii, 165 ; retire
449
Marathas, The — ccmt.
from Rohilkhand, xxvi, 192 ;
attack the Jats, xxvi, 192 ;
dominate the Mogul, xxxi, 193,
231 ni ; dissensions among,
xxxii, 175, 213, 237, 251 ; their
reported claims, xxxii, 235 ;
Bombay attacks the Ministerial
party of, xxxiv, 249 ; civil war
among, xxxv, 256, 257 ; de-
feated at Panipat in 1761,
xxxvi ; intrigue with the French,
xlvi, 321 ; war renewed with,
xlviii, 328, 329, 331, 333;
seize British passengers, xlix,
330 ; are allied with Haidar
and the Nizam, xlix ; conclude
Treaty of Salbai, li ; join Nizam
against Tipu, ]x, 392, 393, 401,
402, 410, 414, 415, 418, 419;
account of, 2 ; J. Bourchier
negotiates with, 24 ; British
policy towards, 31, 32, 142,
145 ; lack confidence in Nizam,
42, 43 ; as mercenaries, 87,
87 m2 ; risks from, 89, 102, 156 ;
ask British aid, 152, 174, 374 ;
threaten Bengal, 156 ; British
neutrality towards, 173, 181,
183 ; Walajah's attitude to,
174, 182, 183, 184 ; defeat the
EohiUas, 187 ; their hostility
to Oudh, 187 ; make peace with
Haidar, 194, 196; attack the
Mogul, 207 ; negotiate with
Haidar and Nizam, 235, 237 ;
cause trouble in Bombay, 247 ;
their fleet, 247 ; agree to an
. armistice, 251, 252, 253, 255,
260 ; Upton's negotiations with,
266, 273 ; peace concluded with,
277, 277 n\, 279, 280, 282, 301,
307, 309 ; defeated by Camac
in 1765, 310 n\ ; expedition
through territory of, 321 ; are
jealous of Sindia, 369 ; in-
cidence of cost of war with,
379 ; threaten Tipu, 381, 391 ;
mentioned, 138, 179, 210, 224,
239, 265, 359.
Maravar of Ramnad, The ; is attacked
by Raja of Tanjore, xxiii, 155,
174 ; his auxiliary force, 26 ;
his territory, 26 n2 ; called The
Great Maravar, 26 vA ; ex-
pedition of 1772 against, 194 ;
is subdued, 213; his country
taken by Walajah, 218 ; a
prisoner, 278.
Maravar of Kaliyarkoil, or of Siva-
ganga, The ; called The Little
Maravar of Kaliyarkoil — cont.
Maravar, 26 to4 ; attacked by
Colonel Bonjour, 50 n2 ; ex-
pedition against, 194 ; called
The Nalkottai Poligar, 194,
194 ra3, 218, 218 m4 ; is subdued,
213 ; a prisoner, 278.
Maravars, The two ; expedition
against, xxviii, 23 ml, 186, 191,
193 ; held prisoners by Walajah
xxxix, 278 ; Walajah's designs
against, 26 ; a history of, 97 n\ ;
oppressed by Tanjore, 162;
revenues of, 194 ; Walajah's
success against, 201 ; Maratha
aid expected for, 235 ; . men-
tioned, xxxii.
Marohand, M., 61 ml.
Maria Theresa, Empress, Ixv, 400,
400 ?il.
Marriage custom, Hindu, 77.
Marsden Thomas ; his contempt of
court, 103, 103 ra3, 109; note
on, 109 k2.
Martin, Captain, 59.
Martin, Mrs., 64.
Mason, E., 63.
Master, Attendant ; post of, xxxv ;
Adams as, 141 nl, 150, 150 n\ ;
Baker as, 14l nl, 171 re3 ; Tas-
well as, 141 ?i3.
Masulipatam ; Lewin Smith as Chief
at, 28 «3, 50?i3, 65, 65?i2,
100; Whitehill as Chief at,
29 »2, 269 ; Bengal troops at,
66 ; Wynch as Chief at, 74 m4,
99, 132, 197 ; Sadleir at, 96 m2,
380; taken by Forde, 116 w5;
value of, 148 ; Daniell as Chief
at, 208 ?i4, 363; T. Palk at,
218, 232, 249, 250, 254, 256,
259, 265, 329; S. Johnson as
Chief at, 255 ; Committee of
Inquiry at, 264 ; Crauford at,
272 ; affairs at, 323 ; bills on,
419 ; mentioned, 29, 43 n2, 66,
98, 174, 202, 248.
Mathews, Brig. -General Richard ; as
captain captures Mulbagal,
xxxvii, 82 n\ ; commands in
Malabar, and surrenders at
Bednur, li ; his battalion, 27 ;
note on, 27 n\ ; praise of, 261,
261 »2.
Maudavarow, Maudharow. See Madhu
Rao.
Maunsell, George ; at Limerick, 348,
349 ; letter from, 351.
Maunsell, Thomas ; bill drawn on,
liv, 351 ; acts for Palk, Iv ;
note on, 351 nl ; letters from.
450
Maunsell, Thomas — cont.
352, 353 ; letter to, 353.
Mauphus Cawn, 61. See Mahfuz Khan.
Mauritius ; Fletcher's death at, xliii,
163 ra2 ; note on, 72 ral ; French
reserves at, 134, 312, 355, 383 ;
mentioned, 163, 326.
Mayor of Madras, 303. See also Court,
Mayor's.
Mazoomdar. See Mdjumddr.
Mears, Commander Charles, 79, 226,
233.
Mecca, 61.
Meddighery, Medgeri (Mudigiri ?), 35,
49.
Merchants, Armenian, 254.
Merchants, The Company's ; replaced
by gomastas, xxxii, 210 n2 ;
duties of, 18 «4 ; of Cuddalore,
55, 56, 69, 280; appointment
of, 136 ; deliver goods, 152 ;
of Madras, 280.
Merchants, Native ; of Calcutta, 80,
80 ?i3 ; of Madras, 254.
Middleton, Samuel, 206, 206 wl.
Midnapur ; G. Vansittart at, 16, 21,
113, 123, 134; aspect of, 40;
conditions at, 80 ; Pearse's
march from, 343 nl.
Militia, Madras, 57 n4, 91, 91 nl.
Mills, Samuel, 303.
Minister Plenipotentiary. jSee Pleni-
' potentiary.
Minor Cadets, Ixii, 394.
Mint, 197, 197 n4.
Mir Jafar, Meer Jaffier. See Jafar Ali
Khan.
Mir Kasim. See Kasim Ali Khan.
Mission, Commercial ; Monokton's,
173, 174; Desvoeux's, 174;
Dalrymple's, 257 n2.
Mocha, 312.
Moderow, 135. See Madhu Rao.
Mofussil (mufassal), 233, 233 m12.
Mogul, The ; cedes the Circars, viii,
23 n6, 102 ml ; Walajah sub-
ordinate to, xxiv, 181 ; govern-
ment of, 1 ; ' confers honours on
Walajah, 11 m2, 12 ; grants the
Carnatic, 42 ; is reconciled to
the Vizier, 110; receives Delhi
from the Marathas, 165 ; is
dominated by the Marathas.
187, 193 ; defends Delhi, 207
joins the Marathas, 231 nA
loses territory, 231 »i4 ; is de
feated by Carnac, 310 n\
mentioned, Iv, 238. See also
Shah Alam.
Mokar Ali, 414.
Monckton, Hon. Edward ; a tanha-
holder, xl, 276, 278; his
marriage, xl, 279, 279 nl, 299 ;
Nawab's charge against, 146 ;
note on, 146 n2 ; his mission
to Quedah, 173, 173 ?il, 174;
Assay master, 216 ; his Manila
trade, 254 ; supports Lord
Pigot, 289; his protest, 300;
his affidavit, 303 ; prepares to
sail, 314 ; is prosecuted, 315.
Money ; lacking in Madras, Iv, Ivii,
90, 329, 354, 355, 364, 410;
scarce at Calcutta, 93, 126,
394; needed in Bengal, 102,
227, 329 ; sent from England,
103 ; supplied to Madras and
Bombay, 379. See also Specie.
Monghyr, 190.
Monson, Colonel the Honi George ;
member of the Supreme
Council, xxxii ; his death,
xxxiii, xliii, 308, 312 ; notes
on, 12 n2, 292 nl ; Madge's
gift for, 50, 65 ; illness of,
282, 292, 307 ; mentioned, 12.
Monson, Lady Anne, 292, 292 nl. See
Vane.
Monthly Review, The. 384 »3, 385.
Moodoo Kistna, Moodu Kisna. See
Muttukrishna Mudali.
Moonimadgoo. See Munimadgu.
Mooperala Kjstnia. See Mupirala
Kistnaiya.
Moore, Henry ; letter from, 13.
Moorees. See Textiles.
Moota Chitty. See Muttu Chetti.
Moracin, L^on, 253.
Morari Bao ; surrenders to Haidar,
XXXV, 311 ; dies in confinement,
XXXV ; his territory, 33, 34, 35 ;
note on, 33 n4 ; Chief of Gooty,
87 w2 ; serves the British, ,
87 m2; fails to assist, 106,
106 ml ; is attacked by Haidar,
270.
Mordaunt, General Sir John, 7, 7 ml.
Morgan, Captain Augustus de, xlvii.
Morgan, Jane de, 52 m4.
Morgan, Captain John de, 267 nl.
Morgan, Mary de, 267 ml.
Morgan, Susanna, 91 m2.
Morris, Commander Arthur, 164.
Morse, Emelia ; marries H. Vansittart,
sen., 17 m4, 30 m3. -See Van-
sittart, Mrs. Emelia.
Morse, Prances ; marries C. Boddam,
245 m4.
Morse, Mrs. Jane ; goes to England,
xxxiii, 202 ; her experiences,
451
Morse, Mrs. Jane — ami.
xxxiv; letters from, 83, 100,
133 ; note on, 83 n\ ; afflicted
by loss of Aurora, 150 ; meets
H. Vansittart, jun., 180 ; her
illness, 195, 202; Du Pr6's
consideration for, 199 ; in
England, 245, 260 ; mentioned,
17 ni, 194. See Gfoddard, Jane.
Morse, Nicholas ; late Governor, xii,
17 ?i4, 83 nl ; his house of
agency, xii, xxxiii, 44, 88, 90 ?il,
103, 119 ; his views on the war,
' xvi, 89 ; deplores loss of H. Van-
sittart, XX, 133, 150 ; his death,
xxvli, 17 ni, 190, 191, 194-199
passim, 202 ; is succeeded by
d'Fries, xxxiii ; his career,
17 tc4 ; deals in diamonds, 21,
90; letters from, 88, 93, 102,
104, 134, 142 ; his house at the
Mount, 119, 135; his kindness
to T. Palk, 138, 174; iUness
of, 174 ; receives H. Vansittart,
jwi., 180; his affairs, 196;
appreciation of, 197 ; agent for
Palk, 93, 225, 410; occupies
Vansittart' s house, 247 ; men-
tioned, 17, 20, 29, 30?i3, 34,
54, 73, 76, 131, 139, 155, 170.
Motteux, John; a Director, 127,
127 nl ; his payment for H.
Vansittart, 128 ; his advice to
L. Sulivan, 188, 188 m3 ; his
accounts, 189 ; loan of stock
to, 243, 243 m4; mentioned,
190.
Moubray, George, 413, 413 «3, 418.
Mould, Mr., 115.
Mount, The. See St. Thomas's Mount.
Mozambique Channel, 151 nl.
Mudaji, Raja of Berar, xlix.
Mudar Mulk (Madar-ul-Mulk). -See
Amir-ul-Umara.
Mudoo Kistna. xSee Muttukrishna
Mudali.
Mugford, Mary, iv, 18 nl.
Muhammad Ali, Xawab of Arcot ;
enters Arcot, vii ; is aided by
Palk, ix ; is besieged in Trichi-
nopoly, xi ; portrait of, xii ;
is hated by Haidar, xiv ; Nawab
of the Camatic, 1, 61 wS ; grants
San Thoni6 to the Company,
10 nl ; his title of Walajah,
11 n2, 61 n3 ; Navdyats de-
tained by, 106 ?i4 ; grants the
Jaghire to the Company, 146 ;
mentioned, 61. See Walajah.
Muhammad Raza ; Xaib Diwan of
Bengal, xxv, 206, 206 ra3 ;
Muhammad, Raza — amt.
arrested, tried and acquitted,
xxvi, 191 n2, 192, 203 ; his
library, 187 ; note on, 187 nl ;
his power broken, 191.
Muhammad Yusuf (" Cawn Sahib ") ;
his rebellion, viii, 61 ; Haidar's
intrigues with, xv; note on,
61 Ml.
Mulbagal, Malwagle; Wood's action
at, xiv, XV, 87, 87 nl ; Wood's
assault on fort of, xvi, 82 ;
Mathews captures fort of, xxxvii,
27 nl ; note on, 82 nl.
Mulkirke, Miss, 110.
Munimadgu ; diamond sales at, 21, 76.
Munir-ud-daula, 110, 110 nl.
Munnimunglum. See Manimangalam.
Munny Begum. See Manni Begam.
Munro, Dr. Andrew, 7 n2, 54 n2, 74 nl.
Munro, Mrs. Prances Mary, 54, 54 n2,
74, 74 nl, 142.
Munro, Major-General Sir Hector ; his
early career, xiv ; arrives at
Madras, xiv, 317 ; is knighted,
xlvii ; retreats from Conjeveram,
1 ; takes Negapatam, 1 ; re-
signs, li ; note on, 317 n2 ;
takes Pondicherry, 324 ; is
considerate to the French, 326 ;
mentioned, xliv.
Munro, John, of Culcarn, 8, 8 n2.
Munro, Katherine, 7, 7 n5.
Munro, Margaret Aurora ; prepares
for India, 55, 74, 74 n2, 75,
75 n3 ; her marriage, 55 nl, 95,
95 n3. See Smith, Mrs. Margaret.
Munro, Robert Duncan ; Walajah's
debt to, 55 ; note on, 55 n2 ;
letter from, 142 ; suspended by
Stratton, 291, 291 nl ; rein-
stated, 318, 318 nl.
Mupirala Kistnaiya, Mupral Kistnayah,
Mooperala Kistnia ; his licence
as betel farmer, 18, 19 n4, 20 ;
letters from, 19, 57 ; his differ-
ence with Walajah, 20 ; his
death, 77 ; his son, 94, 105.
Murshidabad ; Resident at, 116 n6,
206 ; Revenue Board for, 130 ;
Hastings at, 206, 206 n2.
Muscat, 235.
Musnud, The ; of Tanjore, 279.
Mustafanagar (Kondapalli) ; Circar
of, 48.
Mutsuddee (mutasaddi), 207, 207 nl.
Muttu Chetti, Moota Chitty, 41.
Muttukrishna ; Company's Merchant,
70.
Muttukrishna Mudali, Moodoo Kistnah,
Moodu Kisna ; arranges the
452
Muttukrishna Mudali — cont.
affair of Eayalu Pant, xvii, 97,
97 n\, 108, 147, 155 ; Company's
Interpreter, xxxii ; at Sadras,
xxxii ; arrack farmer, 19, 20 ;
letters from, 218, 236, 239, 256,
270, 296, 316, 318, 322 ; Pigot's
dubash, 259, 260; with Pigot
at Tanjore, 277, 280, 296;
Walajah's hostility to, 318,
322 ; mentioned, xxxv, 122,
218 Ml.
Mydagaut, 246.
Mysore ; Raja of, 4 ; future govern-
ment of, 33 ; conquest by
Marathas undesirable, 142 ;
British plan of conquest im-
practicable, 148 ; plundered by
Marathas, 153 ; no intercourse
with, 381.
Mysore War, First ; its cause, xiii, 61,
62, 63, 143; Call's plan of
operations in, 31 ; results ex-
pected from, 49 ; envoy sent
to Haidar during, 78 nl ; British
reverses in, 94 ; disastrous
results of, 95, 105 ; motives for
begimiing, 105 ; incidence of
cost of, 107, 162 ; Hastings's
comments on, 116 ; Ross Lang
in, 365 nl ; mentioned, xxxvii,
xlvi, 225 Ml.
Mysore War, Second ; its heavy cost,
1 ; its deplorable effects, Ivii ;
invasion of Camatio in, 96 7i2 ;
mentioned, xlix, 418 re3.
NaalcOOty, Naulcooty. See Nalkottai
Poligar.
Nadcutch (Nadava-kurichi ?), 25.
Nagore ; disposal of, xxx, 224 ; Resi'
dent at, 196 n\ ; expected grant
of, 269.
Naib ; Walajah's, at Arcot, 27 ; mean
ing of, 27 m4, 206 k3.
Naih Diwan ; in Bengal, 206 ; for Pro
vincial Council, 233, 233 «5.
Najaf Khan ; the Mogul's General,
xxxi, 237, 237 »4 ; at Agra,
237, 238.
Najib Khan, Nazeeb Cawn, 20, 264.
Najib Yar Khan, Nazeabeaur Cawn,
28, 28 k2.
Najm-ud-daula, Nawab of Bengal
126 n5.
Nalkottai (Naalcooty, Naulcooty)
Poligar ; subdued, 194, 194 nZ
his country taken, 218, 218 nA.
See Maravar of Kaliyarkoil.
Nana, Nannah, The ; title of the Pesh-
wa, 2, 280, 280 n7.
Nana Farnavis, xlvi, 317 m4.
Nancy, Miss, 141. See Palk, Anne
(Nancy) .
Nandkumar, Maharaja ; arrest of,
iv nl ; emplojrment of, xxv,
191 ; tried and executed, xxxiii,
248, 248 n5 ; character of, 192 ;
his son, 191, 206.
Narayan ; Governor's dubash, 296.
Narayan Deo, Narrain Dew, Narrain-
doo ; Zemindar of Kimedi, xxx,
68 n2 ; rebels, xxx, 68, 68 re2,
199, 199 ra2 ; is defeated, xxx,
191 n\, 199.
Narayan PiUai, Narrain PiUah ; Com-
pany's Merchant, 56, 56 k2.
Narayan Rao, Narrain Raw, Narran-
rave ; becomes Peshwa, xxxii,
210 ; is murdered, xxxii, 237,
237 nl, 251, 251 nl ; his son,
li, 281, 281 »3 ; his party attack ■
Raghoba, 239.
Narrain Dew, Narraindoo. See Nara-
yan Deo.
Narrain PiUah. See Narayan PiUai.
Narrain Raw, Narranrave. See Nara-
yan Rao.
Nattal, 9.
Naulcooty. See Nalkottai Poligar.
Navdyat class, 106, 106 w4.
Navy, The, 125. See Squadron.
Navy Bills ; remittance by, 328, 331,
333.
Nawab of Arcot and the Carnatic. See
Muhammad Ali. See Walajah.
Nawab of Bengal. See Bengal.
Nawab of Cuddapah. See Cuddapah.
Nawab of Kumool. See Kumool.
Nawab Vizier of Oudh ; seeks British
aid, xxvi, 192, 192 n2 ; Shuja-
ud-daula as, xxxi ; Hastings's,
treaty with, xxxi, 222, 227,
227 n2, 228 ; defeated at Buxar,
xlv ; Barker's influence with,
112 ral; receives territory,
227 n2 ; mutiny in his army,
282 ; Asaf-ud-daula as, 320 nl ;
mentioned, xvi, xxiii, 88 nl.
See Shuja-ud-daula. See Asaf-
ud-daula.
Nazeabeaur Cawn. See Najib Yar
Khan.
Nazeeb Cawn. See Najib Khan.
Negapatam, 1, 351 m3.
'Nellacuntaker, Nellakontawker. See
Nilakantaker.
Nellore, 102 nl.
Neuchatel ; L. Palk at, Ixiu-lxv, 375,
378, 382, 384, 385, 388, 389, 397.
453
Newcastle, Thomas Pelham Holies,
Duke of, 7.
Newspapers ; Morning Chronicle, 60 ;
Nicky's Bengal Gazette, 73 m2.
Neyle family, The, v.
Nicolson, William, Bishop of Carlisle,
415, 415 Ji3.
Nilakantakar, Nellacuntaker, Nella-
kontawker ; diamond merchant,
73, 90, 216.
Nimmo, John, liii, 340, 345.
Nizam Ali, Nizam of Hyderabad ;
Subahdar of the Deccan, viii ;
rules the Circars, viii ; British
alliance with, ix, xv, 60, 60 n4,
89, 90, 96, 102 nl ; his gifts to
Palk and Caillaud, ix ; the
British join him against Haidar,
xiii, 31 ; changes sides, xiii,
63, 111 ; sues for peace, xiv, xv,
67, 199 ; Walajah subordinate
to, xxiv, 181 ; Raghoba makes
terms with, xxxii, 235, 237 ;
recovers territory, xxxv, 257 ;
Rumbold quarrels with, xlvii,
xlviii ; joins Haidar and
Marathas, TrliY ; deserts the
confederacy, 1 ; joins Marathas
against Tipu, Ix, 392 ; called
The Subah, 23, 23 ra2 ; Wala-
jah's jealousy of, 25, 44 ; his
jealousy of the Marsfthas, 47 ;
his former demand on Aicot,
62 ; refuses negotiations with
Walajah, 62; Treaty of 1768
with, 69, 74, 77, 87, 199; his
attitude, 88, 132, 165; weak-
ness of, 194 ; opposes Haidar,
311 ; threatens Tipu, 359, 391 ;
his aims, 393 ; deserts the
Marathas, 401 ; his actions with
Tipu, 410, 414. See also, Subah.
Nizdmai, 192, 192 nl.
North, Frederick, Lord ; notifies
French designs, 171 ; appoints
Macpherson, 263 »2 ; men-
tioned, X, 387.
Northern Circars. See Circars.
Northcote, Sir Henry, 415, 415 m4.
Northcote, Sir Stafford, 415.
Novoyt class. See Navdyat.
Nudjuff Cawn. See Xajaf Khan.
Nund Comar. See Nandkumar.
Nuzar (nazar), 280, 280 nA.
Oakeley, Sir Charles; Governor of
Madras, 196 n\, 212 nl ; Secre-
tary, 212, 295 ; member of the
Board of Revenue, 413; men-
tioned, 331.
Oats, Ann, 365 n2. See Felling. See
Lang.
Oats, Captain Thomas ; commended,
166 ; his marriage, 166 n2,
247 nl ; mentioned, 365 n2.
Observatory, Astronomical, 196 nl.
Officers, Combination of. See Army.
Omer al Omrah, 292. See Amir-ul-
Umara.
Ongole, Wongole ; Raja of, 166 nl ;
assignments given on, 248,
248 nZ ; troops sent to, 258.
Onor. See Honavar.
Opium ; trade claimed by the Com-
pany, xxvi, 231 ; private trade
in, xxxviii, 221, 237; for
Balambangan, 255.
Orange, Prince of, Ixvi, 412.
Orissa ; siirvey of, 167.
Orme, Edward, 369 nl.
Orme MSS., viiwl, x, xra3, xi til,
xvi nl, xviii?il.
Orme , Robert ; his opinion of Palk,
vi ; leaves India, vii ; his
opinion of Lawrence, xi ; his
opinion of C. Bom^chier, xviii,
xviiiral ; monograph for, 199 nl;
corresponds with Pelling,
247 nl ; mentioned, xvi, nl.
Orton, Captain T. (Roderick ?) ;' letter
from, 71 ; notes on, 71 nl,
114 n5; court-martial on, 114,
115.
Orton, Mrs., 71.
Osborne, Admiral Henry, 6, 6 m6.
Otterton, 323, 323 nl.
Ottery St. Mary, Ixii, 372, 374.
Oudh ; British troops in, xxxi ;
Begams of, li ; Hastings's settle-
ment of, Iv ; RenneU's survey
of, 167. See Nawab Vizier. See
Shuja-ud-daula. See Asaf-ud-
daula.
Outcry, Pubhc, 18, 18 n6.
Owen, Arthur, 271, 271 n2.
Owen, Elizabeth, 82 n2.
Oyly, Sir John de, lix, 369, 369 vA.
Pagoda. See Coinage.
Paiba, Abraham de : letter from. 111.
Paine, Commander John, 89.
Pain Gaut, Payen Gatte. See Payen-
gaut.
Paintings. See Textiles.
Palamcotta ; Flint marches from, 25 ;
cantonment required in, 26 ;
recruits for, 29 ; remains British,
95 ; Snelling at, 147, 191 ;
Cooke at, 225.
DD
454
Palameleru. See Palmaner. Palk,
Palankeen, as a mark of honour, 56.
Palar River, 44 ml, m2, 184 nl, 392 ml.
Palghat, Palghatoherri ; captured and
restored, Iv ; garrison of, 351, Palk,
351 m3, 352.
Palk MSS., Haldon collection of ; con-
tents and distribution of, iii,
xii ; hiatus in, xlix.
Palk MSS. in the British Museum;
acquired, iii ; selection from,
xxxiv ; examined, Ixvii.
Palk Strait, xxui, 325 nS.
Palk, Anne (Lady Palk) ; wife of (Sir)
Robert Palk, viii ; her death,
X, Ixvii : health of, Ixvi, 322,
403, 409, 415, 416 ; her kind- Palk,
ness to Miss Stonhouse, 37 ;
sister of Henry and George Palk,
Vansittart, 37 m3 ; leader of
Madras Society, 38 ; letter to, Palk,
40 ; her homeward voyage, 51,
55 ; receives news of loss of
Aurora, 130 ; her dubash, 271 ;
mentioned, xiii, 14-411 passim.
Palk, Anne (Nancy) ; daughter of (Sir)
Robert Palk, viii ; her marriage,
X, Ixiv, 385, 396, 402, 413 ; born
in India, viii, Ixiii; gifts for,
69, 69 n3, 360 ; her house, 141,
141 n2, 195 ; mentioned, 91,
164, 180, 227, 274, 373, 386,
388, 416.
Palk, Mrs. Catharine ; wife of Tom
Palk, xhv ; letter from, 357 ;
desires a portrait, 358 ; her
plans for her children, 372 ;
wishes to visit England, 401 ;
her plans upset, 419 ; mentioned
Ivi, 380, 411. See PelUng,
Catharine.
Palk, Catharine, jun. ; daughter of
Tom Palk, Ivi, 357 ; to be sent
home, Ixii, 372, 411, 417.
Palk, Catherine (Kitty) ; daughter of Palk,
(Sir) Robert Palk, ix ; her
death, Ixiii ; born in England,
79, 79 «3, 91, 91 tc5 ; mentioned
227, 274.
Palk, Emeha ; daughter of (Sir) Palk,
Robert Palk, jx ; birth of, ix,
274, 274 nl ; her death, Ixiii,
Ixvii, 412, 412 n3 ; her illness,
Ixiv, Ixvi, 388, 390, 396, 398,
402, 403, 404, 409 ; mentioned
386.
Palk, Grace ; aunt of (Sir) Robert
Palk, iv.
Palk, Grace, sister of (Sir) Robert
Palk ; marries R. Welland, sen.,
iv, 254 nl. See Welland, Grace.
Grace ; niece of (Sir) Robert
Palk, V, 245 n3 ; marries N.
Tripe, v, 180 to3 ; suggested visit
to India, 131, 202, 204.
Ensign John ; his arrival in
India, xvii, 83 m6, 114, 114 n2,
115, 136, 136 ml, 141, 151;
his fatal expedition, xvii, 160,
163 ; named in error, 83, 83 n6 ;
destined for India, 88, 88 ra3 ;
appointed Ensign, 136 ; at
Poonamallee, 141 ; letter from,
151 ; at Samulkota, 151, 153 ;
Madge's kindness to, 153, 154 ;
his estate, 249, 250, 263, 254 ;
mentioned, v.
Jonathan ; uncle of (Sir) Robert
Palk, iv.
Rev. Jonathan ; nephew of (Sir)
Robert Palk, v.
Lawrence, son of (Sir) Robert
Palk ; bom in India, viii ; his
travels and letters, x, Ixiii ; at
Oxford, Ixiii; his stay at
Neuohatel Ixiv, 375, 382, 390 ;
dental operation on, Ixiv, 375,
382 ; moves to Vienna, Ixv,
397, 398; visits Brunswick,
Hanover, Holland, &c., Ixvi,
405, 406, 407, 412 ; his charac-
ter, Ixvii ; succeeds his father,
Ixvii ; letters from, 375, 383,
385, 388, 389, 395, 398, 400,
402, 403, 404, 409, 411; his
expenses, 382, 386, 388, 390,
391, 405, 408 ; attitude to his
father, 389 ; at Constance,
395 ; his entanglement, 397 ;
his tour in Hungary, 400 ; at
Berlin, 402, 403; meets the
Crown Prince, 404, 404 nl ;
objects of his tour, 404 ; meets
Oxford friends, 408 ; mentioned,
91, 164, 180, 227, 274, 373.
Mrs. Lucia ; wife of Robert Palk,
jun., xvi ; her death, xvi, xvii,
202, 204 ; monument to, xvii ;
to go to Patna, 136 ; at Calcutta,
187. See Stonhouse, Lucia.
(Sir) Robert ; his correspond-
ence, iii, iv nl, xxv ; his ances-
try and family, iv, v ; his birth
and education, v ; takes holy
orders and becomes a naval
chaplain, v ; joins the Com-
pany as chaplain, v ; Paymaster
to the Army, vi ; his political
services, vi, xxxii, 3, 4, 30 Ji3, 60,
97 nl ; member of the Select
Committee, vii ; goes to England
and is nominated prospective
455
Palk, (Sir) Robert — cont.
Governor, vii ; his marriage, viii,
30 n3 ; Governor of Madras,
1763-67 , viii, 61, 159 ; returns
to England, viii, 14 ; acquires
Haldon, ix, 123 ; in Parliament,
ix, 86 ml, 242, 353 ; created a
baronet, x, lii, 336, 336 n2;
his death, x, Ixvii ; his chief
correspondents, xii, xiii ; states
causes of first Mysore War,
xiv, XV, 61-63 ; his overtures
to Haidar, xv, 61 ; Rayalu
Pant's claim on, xvii, 97, 155,
163 ; deplores loss of Vansittart,
XX, 157 ; admonishes Tom Palk,
xxviii, 228 ; his house in Fort
St. George, xxxv, 223 ml, 251 ;
is reconciled to Tom Palk, xlix,
333 ; his MSS. on Devon, Ixiii,
406, 415 ; his children, Ixiii,
141 m2 ; executor for Dr.
Munro, 7 n2 ; letters to, 7-419
passim ; letters from, 14, 59,
60, 68, 90, 91, 92, 96, 111, 115,
123, 129, 148, 149. 154, 157, 159,
169, 170, 185, 228, 240, 243;
his friendship for L. Sulivan,
30 r!2 ; his London houses, 59,
170, 288 ; to solicit votes, 63 ;
his concerns in the East, 73,
239, 240, 241, 333 ; comments
on the first Mysore war, 96,
111 ; pleads for Bourchier,
105 ; his views as to Walajah's
creditors, 129 ; his friendship
for Hastings, 138 ; Walajah's
charges against, 140 ; his
anxiety for the Aurora, 154 ;
his loan to Goodlad, 179, 180 ;
employs Cotsford, 199 ml ; his
MadrEis agents, 212 ; acts for
R. Palk, jun., 219 ; his dealings
in India Stock, 243 ; Walajah's
confidence in, 269 ; Lane's
debt to, 281 ; Walajah's com-
plaint to, 305 ; Hughes's friend-
ship for, 331 ; his claim on
Droz, 384, 409 ; mentioned,
35, 39 ml, 100, 134, 171 m4,
249, 369, 408.
Palk, Robert, jun., Bengal civil service;
nephew of (Sir) Robert Palk,
iv ; visits Madras, xiii, 16 ;
marries Lucia Stonhouse, xiii,
xvi, 131, 134, 136, 150; mis-
conduct of, xvi, 80, 92 ; at
Patna, xxiii, 130, 134, 136, 158,
187 ; restored to Patna, xxvi,
226, 227, 230 ; his expenditure,
xxvii, 215 ; his opinion of
Palk, Robert, jun. — cont.
Emelia Vansittart, xxvii, 226 ;
reports on Tom Palk, xxviii,
232 ; gives Bengal news, xxxi ;
his opium venture, xxxviii, 221,
237,238,239; his iUness, voyage
and death, lii, Ivi, 333-336, 340,
354, 357, 358, 409 ; his effects,
lii-liv, 338, 339, 340, 342, 350,
352 ; his servants, liii, 337,
340, 341, 346; his passage
money, Uii, 338 ; his stores for
the voyage, liii, 339 ; his estate,
Iviii, Ixi, 360, 361, 369, 408,
408 ml, 410 ; letters from, 16,
44, 113, 122, 130, 226, 230, 237,
238, 272 ; note on, 16 k2 ; his
bequests, 39 «1, 362, 382, 386 ral,
411 ; is unemployed, 45, 113,
187, 190, 219 ; at Gossimbazar,
88, 92, 408 ; acts for his uncle,
112, 112 ra2; aids Tom Palk,
135, 138, 232 ; is recalled from
Patna, 158, 159 ; his son, 175 ;
death of his wife, 202 ; Madge's
proposal to, 218 ; at Dacca,
245 ; accident to, 273 ; his
remittances, 314, 333 ; sails
for England, 333 ; attended by
Dr. Burt, 336, 340; letters
carried by, 342, 345 ; his will,
343, 360 ; Droz's bond to, 384,
387, 409 ; mentioned, iv, iv ml,
xiii, 18 ml, 81, 81 m3, 115, 115 ml,
170, 204, 207, 214, 220, 256,
282, 353.
Palk, Robert, tertius ; son of Tom Palk,
Ivi, 357 ; to be sent home, Ixii,
411, 417 ; mentioned, 372, 394.
Palk, Thomas ; great-grandfather of
(Sir) Robert Palk, iv.
Palk, Thomas ; uncle of (Sir) Robert
Palk, iv.
Palk, Ijeut. Thomas ; a kinsman of
(Sir) Robert Palk, v, xii, 64 m5 ;
serves in the Circars, v, xii,
64, 65 ; accompanies Hart's
detachment, xv, 66, 87 ; his
fatal expedition, xvii, 153, 156,
160, 161, 163; letters from,
87, 114, 136, 153 ; at Konda-
paUi, 151 ; his child, 204, 250 ;
his estate, 249, 253, 254 ; men-
tioned, 74 m3, 81, 81 n4, 176.
Palk, Tom ; nephew of (Sir) Robert
Palk, iv ; a cadet and after-
wards civil servant, v, xii,
74 m3 ; his voyage to and
arrival in India, xv, xv ml,
18, 18 ml, 74, 74 m3, 81 ; joins
the army in Mysore, xv, 81,
456
Palk, Tom^ — cont.
83, 83»i6, 87, 93, 94, 108; is
transferred to the civil service,
xvii, xviii, 91, 104, 110; is
commended, xviii, 103, 108,
166 ; visits Trichinopoly, xxvii,
163 ; visits Calcutta, xxvii,
202, 204, 207, 219 ; appointed
to Masiilipatam, xxviii, xxxvi,
218 ; his extravagance, 229,
232 ; is admonished by his
uncle, xxviii, 129, 228, 229;
his reform, xxviii, xlv, Ixii, 401,
411 ; his marriage, xliv, 247 nl,
313 ; is superseded, xlv, 318 ;
Pajonaster at Trichinopoly, xlv,
Iv, 354, 357, 358, 411, 417;
criticizes Rumbold, xlviii, 327,
328 ; is forgiven by his uncle,
xlix, 333 ; his children, Ivi,
Ixii, 357, 372, 394, 411, 417;
describes desolation of the
Camatic, Ivii, 371 ; receives a
legacy, Iviii, 362, 382, 386,
386 Ml, 408 ; criticizes David-
son's rule, Ix, 386, 392; his
remittances, Ixii, 380, 381, 386,
401, 403, 411, 417; acquires
Butterford, Ixiii; Olive's in-
terest in, 59, 59 to5 ; is recom-
mended to Goodlad, 69, 97 ;
letters from, 74, 81, 118, 119,
138, 150, 152, 153, 174, 202,
204, 207, 214, 218, 249, 265,
313, 321, 327, 329, 351, 358,
360, 370, 372, 380, 381, 386,
392, 401, 403, 411, 417 ; leaves
the army reluctantly, 101, 103,
108, 110, 139; bis mother's
wish. 111 ; his salary and allow-
ance, 118, 266 ; begins private
trade, 118, 135 ; serves under
. Goodlad, 135, 138; his atten-
tion to John Palk, 151 ;
executor for his cousins, 161,
204, 249, 253; applies to
occupy his uncle's house, 208 ;
letters to, 228, 249 ; meets R.
WeUand, 254, 256 ; grieves at
his uncle's displeasure, 265,
329 ; his debt to Wynch, 266,
272 ; Perring's interest in, 314,
314 to2 ; appointed to Chingle-
put but superseded, 315, 316,
318, 321, 327; proposes to
visit England, 419 ; mentioned,
XXXV, Ixi, 64to5, 84, 114, 115,
116, 131, 136, 141, 147, 150,
214, 259.
Palk, Tom, jun., son of Tom Palk, Ivi ;
is sent to England, Ivi, Ixii, 351,
Palk, Tom, jun. — cont.
357 ; his school, Lxii, 372, 374,
374 ?i4 ; his first school biU,
lxii, 375 ; his passage money,
351 ; arrives at Haldon, 358,
372 ; his portrait desired, 358 ;
news expected of, 371 ; his
progress, 411.
Palk, Walter (d. dr. 1679), great-grand-
uncle of (Sir) Bobert Palk, iv.
Palk, Walter (b 1659), grandfather of
(Sir) Robert Palk, iv, 229,
229 ra3.
Palk, Walter (b. 1686), father of (Sir)
Robert Palk, iv, 229, 229 n2.
Palk, Walter, (b. 1714), brother of (Sir)
Robert Palk, iv, 16 ra2, 18 nl,
39 nl ; his house at YoUand
Hill, 231 »2 ; mentioned, 64 n5,
74 9i3, 88, 88 »4, 113, 113 ?i4,
115, 115 »2, 174, 229, 229 »1,
354, 354 m2.
Palk, Walter (b. 1742), nephew of
(Sir) Robert Palk, iv, 122;
letter to, 374 ; note on, 374 »3 ;
letter from, 381 ; his purchases,
411, 411 nl ; mentioned, 386.
Palks, The Cornish; Lieut. Thomas
Palk and Ensign John Palk [q.v.)
so termed, 249.
Palmaner, Pass of, 43, 43 nl.
Palmer, Archdale ; member of the
Majority, xl, 289, 294, 306;
opposes Walajah, 246 ; note
on, 246 n5 ; verdict against,
315 ml ; mentioned, 255.
Pandal, 311, 311 m2.
Panipat, Battle of, in 1761 ; xxxvi,
281 nl, n%
Panjalam Kurichi, Pannyallum Crutch,
25.
Parker, Captain J. N., 163, 163 to3.
Parliament ; Acts of, xxxii, xxxiii,
Ivii, Iviii, 362, 377 ; controls the
Company, 105 ; orders enquiry
regarding India, 185 ; will
frame laws for India, 203 ; dis-
solution of, 244 ; members of,
ix, XXV, xxix, 86 ?il, 185, 186,
193, 212, 214, 242, 353.
Parry, Edward, xxvii, xxvii nl,
248 ?i4.
Parry, Mrs. Emelia, 248, 248 nl, 317,
317 nl. See Vansittart, Emeha,
jun.
Parwana, 233, 233 m3.
Pascal, Mary, 360 nl.
Pasley, Dr. Gilbert ; attends Goodlad,
xxix, 211, 211 nl ; attends Lord
Pigot, xliv ; note on, 73 »2 ;
attends Madge 223, 223 n3 ; will
457
Pasley, Dr. Gilbert — ccmt.
attend Kennaway, 315 ; men-
tioned, 73.
Passage money ; for R. Palk, jun., liii,
338; for Dr. Burt, liii, 340,
342, 361 ; for Tom Palk, jun.,
351 ; receipts of a commander
for, Iviii, 376.
Passes, Camatic ; Changama, 1 ; Man-
galpetta, 23 ; from Mysore, 34 ;
Palmaner, 43, 43 nl ; Kada-
panattam, 43, 43 nl, 48 ; Jega-
devi, 44, 44 nl ; troops to
defend, 47 ; possession desired
of, 49 ; taken by Haidar, 63 ;
closed by Tipu, Ix, 381 ; men-
tioned, xxi.
Patan Nawabs, 393.
Patna ; Revenue Council at, xvi, 130,
158 ; Hastings's mission to,
xxvi, 124 7i2 ; H. Munro suc-
ceeds Cstmao at, xlv ; massacre
at, 122 ra2; R. Palk, jun., at,
136, 175, 187, 226, 227, 230;
McGwire as Chief at, 171 ; H.
Vansittart, jun., at, 190, 215 ;
G. Vansittart at, 202, 207 ;
opium revenue from, 231 ; views
of, 238 ; Camao succeeds Cail-
laud at, 310 TOl.
Patthagarh, Pattagur, 187, 187 n2.
Paupa Braminy, jun. (V. Papaiya),
97 nl.
Pay ; of army is in arrear, Iv, Ivi, Ivii,
lix, Ixi, 354, 359, 372, 381, 393 ;
of civil servants is in arrear,
Iv, Ivii, 354, 364 ; reduction of
civil, Iviii, 361, 376; of a
temporary writer, 98; of a
covenanted writer, 108.
Payengaut, Pain Gaut, Payen Gatte
the passes to be part of the, 34
etymology of the term, 34 nl
threat against, 116 ; chant for
the, 237.
Payne, John ; extracts from Orme's
letter to, vi, xi, xviii ; men-
tioned, xviii nl.
Peach, Colonel Joseph ; his detach-
ment, xiv ; arrives from Bengal,
XV, 68 ; defeats Narayan Deo,
XXX, 68 w2, 191 nl ; supersedes
Hart, 68, 87 ; note on, 68 nl ;
marches on Hyderabad, 199.
Pearse, Colonel Thomas Deane ; his
Bengal contingent, 1, hi, 343 nl ;
returns to Bengal, Iv, 352, 362 ;
note on, 352 nl.
Pechell, Mr., ix, 63.
Peokham, William, 350.
Peddanaikpetta, 218 n3.
Peddapore (Peddapuram), 23.
Pelling & de Fries ; the firm of,
xxxiii, 90 ml, 247 nl ; advise
Palk, xlviii, 326 ; commend
Call, lix, 371 ; anticipate
trouble, Ix, 392 ; criticize
Davidson's rule, Ix, 392 ; re-
mittance through, 150 ; sell
Vansittart's house, 247 ; letters
from, 326, 333, 371, 380, 392,
401, 410, 414, 417, 419 ; refuse
to represent Macleane, 331 ;
mentioned, xliv, Iv, Ixi, Ixii,
241. See Fries, John de. See
Pelling, Thomas, jun.
Pelling, Ann ; marriages of, 166 ri2,
247 nl, 365 »2. See Oats. See
Lang.
Pelling, Catharine ; marries Tom Palk,
xliv, 247 nl, 313. See Palk,
Mrs. Catharine.
Pelling, Elizabeth, 247 ml, 394 m2. See
Gibson, Elizabeth.
Pelling, Mary, 247 nl.
Pelling, Sophia, 247 ml.
Pelling, Thomas, sen., 247 ml.
Pelling, Thomas, jun., free merchant,
xxxiii ; joins d'Fries, xxxiii ;
his daughters, xliv, 166 m2, 313,
365 ra2 ; his grandsons, Ixii,
393 ; note on, 247 ml ; letters
from, 321, 393, 406.
Pemble, Mr., 7.
Penny, The Rev. Frank, Ixvii.
Peon, 20, 20 n2.
Perpetuanoes. See Textiles.
Perring, Peter ; a member of Council,
xliv, 314, 314 ml ; on special
duty, 264, 264 ra3 ; returns from
England, 313 ; his interest in
Tom Palk, 314, 314 m2, 315;
is deputed to Tanjore, 315 ;
mentioned, 333.
Persia, 131.
Persian language ; H. Vansittart's
study of, 180, 190, 227;
Chambers's proficiency in, 258.
Persian Translator ; Clavering's, xxxiii,
262 ; S. Sulivan, as, xlix,
329 n2, 332 ; office of the, 219,
222; at Calcutta, 227; R.
Goodlad as, 272.
Pery, Mr., liv, 347.
Peshcush, Piscash, tribute ; payable
by Mysore to Nizam, 33, 33 m2 ;
to be paid by the Company
to the Exchequer, 72.
Peshkdr. steward, 206.
Peshwa, The ; alliance proposed with,
xxiv, 182 ; Narayan Rao's son
as, li ; Madhu Rao as, 116
458
Peshwa, The — eont.
116 »i2; called The Nana, 280,
280 nl, French envoy to,
317 ra4. See Madhu Rao. See
Narayan Rao.
Petr6, Mr., 170.
Petre, Mr. (John Petrie ?), xxvii, 232,
232 nl.
Petrie, William ; Secretary to Govern-
ment, xxix, 212, 213 ; recom-
mended, 196 ; note on, 196 nl ;
letter from, 210 ; Judge Advo-
cate Greneral, 212 ; administers
Goodlad's estate, 222 ; visits
England, 260, 260 nl ; men-
tioned, 216, 419.
Petty, John, Earl Wycombe, 388,
389, 395.
Petty, William, Earl of Shelburne.
See Shelburne. See Lansdowne.
Philadelphia, 363.
Phillips, Ann, 95, 95 ni.
Phipps, Mr., 69.
Phipps, 'Mi., jun., 92.
Phipps, Mrs. 92.
Phousdar (faiijdar) ; of Khammamett,
66, 67 ; etymology, 66 n2 ; at
Tanjore, 254, 254 ?72.
Phousdari (faujdari), 181, 181 m2.
Piece-goods. See Textiles.
Pignon, M., 397.
Pigot, Dr., 6, 6 n4.
Pigot, George, Lord ; arrives as
Governor of Madras, xxxviii,
257, 258, 259, 260, 270, 282,
284 ; his previous adminis-
tration, xxxviii, 140, 253, 296,
305 ; his dealings with Wala-
jah, xxxix, 259, 266, 268, 275,
296 ; is deputed to Tanjore,
xxxix, 276, 277 ; reinstates the
Raja, xxxix, 276, 277, 279,
283, 296 ; arrests the Kawab's
manager, xl, 283 ; his minority
in Council, xl, 285 ; suspends
Stratton and Brooke, xli, 285,
289, 300, 306 ; is arrested and
confined, xli, 286, 288, 289,
292, 295, 296, 297, 298, 300,
301, 304, 306, 312; resists
removal, xlii, 287, 289 ; charges
against, xlii, 291, 293, 298, 299 ;
his suggested motives, xlii, 298,
299 ; proposal to deport, xliii,
311, 312 ; illness and death of,
xliv ; inquest on, xliv, 315,
315 Jil ; expected as Governor,
232, 247, 251, 253, 254, 255,
256 ; orders troops to Tanjore,
263 ; his courtesy to W3Tich,
265 ; his charge against Mao-
Pigot, George, Lord — cont.
pherson, 270; brings orders
regarding Tanjore, 273, 274,
301, 308 ; his measures dis-
approved, 276, 288, 293, 297,
301, 306 ; his gifts to the Raja,
278; applies for a writ, 287,
295 ; alleged plot against,
291 m2, 302, 303, 304; his
action criticized, 296, 297 ; his
military commission, 300 ;
claims Hughes's protection, 302 ;
claims damages, 307, 309 ; fails
to correspond with Bengal, 308 ;
retains keys, 311 ; appeal to,
366 ; his promises to Zemindars,
367 ; mentioned, vii, xii, xxx,
XXXV, 51 w2, 109 ?il, 113 »6,
163 ?i2, 197, 246 n5, 366.
Pigot, Leonora ; engagement and mar-
riage of, xliii, xlv, 299, 314 ; at
Admiralty House, 258, 258 Jil.
Pigot, Sophia ; her marriage, xl,
146 w2, 279, 279 Ml, 299; at
Admiralty House, 258, 258 nl.
Pigou, Miss, 73.
Pigou, Commander Peter, 271.
Pincke, Thomas Alured, 95, 95 «2.
Piscash. See Peshcush.
Pitt, WiUiam, Earl of Chatham, 6, 30,
356.
Pitt, William, jun.; his India Bill, 362,
377, 410 ; mentioned, 356.
Plassey, Battle of ; Rumbold wounded
at, xlv, 315 ni ; Byre Coote at,
8 n5 ; Barker at, 112 rel.
Playdell (or Pleydell), Charies Stafford ;
his loan to Vansittart, 128,
128 nl ; dismissal of, 252 ;
note on, 252 ni.
Plenipotentiary, The ; arrival of, xx,
132 m2 ; supports Walajah, xxi,
137 ; his influence over Wala-
jah, xxiv, 145 ; altercations
with, 132, 137, 139, 140, 143;
his threats, 138, 173; his
powers, 145, 158 ; injures the
Company, 183, 185, 186, 213.
See Lindsay. See Harland.
Pleydell, Charles Stafiord. See Play-
dell.
Plowman, Henry, 45 n6, 92, 92 nl, 93.
Plowman, Mrs., 45.
Plumer, Hall, xlviii, 328, 328 nl.
Plymouth, 123.
Pocock, Admiral Sir George, 52 ; note
on, 52 n2.
Point de Galle, 168.
Point Palmeiras, 54.
Police ; Board of, xix ; superintendent
of, 252, 252 ni.
459
Poligar of Etaiyapuram, 25.
Poligar, Naalcooty. See Nalkottai.
Poligars of the Circars ; Nizam settles
with, 23 ; note on, 23 n3 ; fail
to aid the Nizam, 67 ; Madge
operates against, 136.
Poligars, Northern ; operations
against, 63 n4, 153, 418 n3.
Poligars, Southern ; rebellion of, xv,
25 ; operations against, xxviii,
26 w3, 176 nS, 194, 351 n3 ; dis-
affection among, 62 ; their
soldiers called Colleries, 194 nl.
Polilur ; first battle of, 1 ; second
battle of, 1, li. Hi, 147 re4,
271 n2, 352 nl.
Pondicherry ; Boscawen's siege of,
V, xi, XXXV, 171 re3 ; Palk and
Vansittart at, vi, 30 n.3 ; de-
fences of, xxxii, 93, 110, 196,
235, 253, 311, 380 ; Jean Law
as Governor of, xxxii, 35, 36 w2 ;
137, 137 nl, 174; siege and
capture of (1761), xxxviii, 12 nl,
n2, 22 w4 ; siege and capitula-
tion (1778), xlvi, xlvii, 317 re2,
323, 324, 325, 326 ; demolition
of its fortifications, xlvii, 360 nl;
held by the British, Iv, 355;
death of Bussy at, Ivii, 363,
364 ; American ship at, Ivii,
363 ; restored to the French,
Ivii, 364 ; Mysore attempts
relief of, 62 ; the Morses
prisoners at, 83 nl ; French
force at, 134, 137, 196, 355, 372,
380 ; trade at, 152, 253 ; cap-
ture of (1793), 176 n3 ; system
of Grovemment at, 225, 235,
311 ; British passengers sail
from, 271 ; Bellecombe as
Governor of, 312, 325 ; French
fleet at, 322 ; British Resident
at, 355 ; an open town, 402 ;
mentioned, 210.
Poona, Ponnah ; Ministerial party
at, xxxiv, 257, 282 ; St. Lubin
at, xlvi, 317 n4 ; Upton as
envoy to, 251, 253, 255, 258 ;
seat of the Maratha government,
256 ; British advance on, 258 ;
Walajah's envoy to, 258 ; treaty
signed at, 273, 301 ; Raghoba
invited to, 309 ; Durbar jealous
of Sindia, 369.
Poonamallee ; rented by Walajah,
xlviiinl ; mutiny at, Ivi, 363,
364 ; training of cadets at.
Poonamallee — cont.
136, 141 ; Coote's regiment at,
151 ; recruits at, 193; French
prisoners at, 325 ; note on,
325 n6.
Popham, Major William, xhx, 1.
Popinjays. See Textiles.
Portledge ; library at, Ixiii, 406 nl,
415, 415 n2.
Porto Novo ; battle of, 1, 8 n5, 352 nl ;
French landing at, 1.
Post, Letter ; plan for, xxxi, 238,
238 nl.
Post Office ; letters censored by, 97.
Potsdam ; Frederick the Great at,
Ixv, 403, 404 ; Crown Prince
of Prussia at, 404.
Potter, James ; letter to, 239.
Pourtales, Messrs. ; receipts from,
390, 391 ; credit with, 397.
Povery, Lieut. Peter James, 23.
Powney, Mrs. Catherine ; is inoculated,
79 ; note on, 79 n2.
Powney, Catherine Ann ; her marriage,
Iviii, 360 n2. >See Vansittart,
Mrs. Catherine.
Powney, Commander John, 14 n2,
19 wl, 22 nl, 79 n2.
Powney, Mrs. Mary ; letter from, 9 ;
note on, 19 nl ; Palk's friend-
ship for, 360.
Powney, Thomas, 79 n2.
Powney, William ; his voyage, 14,
14 n2, 19, 29.
Prangin, Mme. de, 398.
Presburg, 400.
Preston, A., 64.
Preston, Ensign Henry ; arrives as
cadet, lii, ; letters from, 336'i',
352 ; his voyage to India,
336 ; note on, 336 nl ; joins
Colonel Pearse, 352, 413, 413 nl.
Preston, Ensign William ; escorts Tom
Palk's family, Ixiii, 419 ; letters
from, 370, 419; note on,
370 nl ; his family, 413, 413 n2.
Price, Commander Joseph ; his involv-
ed affairs, 237 ; conduct of, 238 ;
letter from, 239; vilifies Francis,
377 ; defends Hastings, 377 n2.
Pridhamsleigh, 245 nl.
Priestaford, iv.
Prince of Wales's Island, 196 nl.
Prisoners, British ; restored by Tipu,
lii, 355 nl.
Prisoners, French ; restored to Pondi-
cherry, 62 ; disposal of, 325,
325 n5.
(1) The naval action between Hughes and Suffren descriV)ed by Preston as taking
place on the 22nd June, 1783, off Trincomalee, was actually fought on the 20th June
off Cuddalore. It was the last of five engagements, all indecisive.
460
Prussia, Crown Prince of, Ixvi, 404,
404 nl, 407.
Prussia, Frederick the Great, King of ;
at Potsdam, Ixv ; critical con-
dition of, 403, 403 m4, 404 ; his
army, 405 ; his death, 409.
Prussia, Frederick William II, King
of, 412.
Pudukottai, 26 nl.
Pulicat ; capture of, 1 ; vessel ashore
at, 314.
Purandhar, Treaty of. See Treaties.
Purling, John ; Goodlad's correspond-
ence with, 129, 155, 163, 166,
186 ; Chairman of Directors,
129 ?il, 157; mentioned, 186,
186 n2, 243, 244.
Pumea, 222.
Pumell, George ; letters from, 44, 88 ;
free merchant, 44 re3 ; men-
tioned, 241.
Pushpanatha Nainar, 19.
Putney, 242.
Pybus, John ; aids Olive at Arcot,
xii, 17 tc], 246 m3 ; describes
military operations, xv, 48-50
prepares for England, 17, 51
his career, 17 7il ; letter from
48 ; his reception of Call and
66 ; expected in England, 63
63 n2 ; Calland's threat against,
70, 71 ; bills drawn on, 113
mentioned, 64, 286 ral, 364.
Pybus, Mrs. Martha, 17, 17 ral, 51. See
SmaU.
Pybus, Martha, jun., 286 ?il, 307.
Pybus, Patrick, 48.
Pye, John ; Navy agent, xii, 5 nl ;
letter from, 5.
Pyne, George, 179, 179 «1.
Quarter Sessions, xliv, 3li, 315 nl.
Queda, Quedda (Kedah) ; Roman
Church Mission at, 10, 10 m4 ;
commercial mission to, 146 n2,
174 ; mentioned, 54.
Rackobah, Rakobah. See Raghoba.
Raganout Row. See Raghoba.
Ragapatam, 153.
Raghoba (Raghunath Rao) ; com-
mands the Maratha army, xxxii,
210 ; instigates murder of his
nephew, xxxii, 237 ?i], 251,
251 n\ ; makes terms with
Nizam and Haidar, xxxii, 235,
237 ; is supported by J^ombay
Raghoba — cont.
Council, xxxiv, xlvi ; is aban-
doned by the British, xxxvi,
273, 309 ; reaches Surat, xlvi ;
escapes from Sindia and joins
Goddard, xlix ; is pensioned, li,
282 ; assumes the Peshwa-ship,
237, 251, 256 ; is attacked by
Narayan's party, 239 ; joins
Bombay against the Ministerial
party, 249, 251, 256 ; transfers
territory to Haidar, 252 ; his
relations with Sudaba, 281,
281 nl, 309 ; takes refuge at
Bombay, 309.
Raghoji Angria, 281 nl.
Raghunath Rao, Ragonada Raw, Rago-
nath Row, Ragonaud Raw.
See Raghoba.
Ragu Raz, Ragorauze, 43, 48.
Raichore, 414.
Raitt, Thomas, 110, 110 m5.
Raja Gurdas, 191, 206.
Raja Mall. See Rajmahal.
Rajahmmidry, 48, 160.
Rajah Pandit, alias Rayalu Pant ; liis
claim oh Palk, xvii, 97, 97 n2,
HI, 122, 147, 155, 155 n2, 163,
169 ; Renter of San Thom6, &c.,
97 ; his indebtedness, 108,
108^2, 110.
Rajapalaiyam, Rajapollam, 25.
Raja Sahib. See Raza Sahib.
Raja of Totapalli, 153.
Rajmahal, 190.
Rajputs, 2.
Rakobah. See Raghoba.
Ram, George Andrew, xliv, 315 n2.
Ramakrishna, Rama Kisna ; letters
from, 19, 57, 76, 94, 104 ; death
of, 154 ; his Charity Choultry,
154 ; mentioned, 19 «.4.
Ramanaiya, Ramanaiyaka, 20, 21, 77.
Ramnad, Ramanadapuram ; attacked
by Tanjore, xxiii, 155 ; sack
of, xxviii, 193 ; the Maravar of,
xxxix, 26 m4, 174, 278. See
also Maravar.
Rampa Hills, xvii.
Randall, William ; his alleged plot, 291,
291 n2 ; affidavits as to, 303.
Ranga Rao, 367.
Rani-beddalure, 35.
Raon, Dom Joseph, 53, 53 n2, 54.
Rashboots. See Rajputs.
Rayadrug, 47, 47 ml.
Rayalu Pant, Royala Punt. See
Rajah Pandit.
Raydrugure. See Rayadrug.
Raza Sahib, Raza Khan, 61 ni, 181,
181 nl.
461
Rea. See Coinage.
Eecreations. See Amusements. See
Sport.
Red Sea, 332.
Regiments : —
14th Foot (Clayton's Eegt.), x.
39th Foot (Adlercron's Regt.),
X, 73 n2, 310 nl.
52nd Foot, 363, 364.
79th Poot'l) (Draper's Regt.),
8 ra4, 12 n2, 68, 68 n3, 72 n3,
86, 100.
84th Foot (Coote's Regt.), 151.
89th Foot, xlv, 317 m2.
96th Foot, 50 m6.
98th Foot, 351 m3.
100th Foot, 359 nl.
102nd Foot(2), 360.
Madras European Regiment,
121 w3.
3rd Madras Native Infantry,
115.
Regulating Act. See Act.
Regulations, Revenue, 233.
Reid (or Reed), John, 130.
Remittance ; by diamonds, xxxviii,
21, 21 h2, 73 ; difficulties of,
93 ; in gold, 237, 252, 264 ; by
Kavy bills, 328, 331, 333.
RendeU, Commander, 353.
RenneU, Major James ; his career,
xxiii ; letters from, 167, 260 ;
progress of his survey, 167 ;
notes on, 167 nl, 260 n2, nZ ;
his children, 261, 261 nl ; men-
tioned, xui.
RenneU, Mrs. Jane, 260, 260 n3, 261.
See Thackeray.
Rental General and Scavenger, 54 nl.
Renter ; of Chicacole, 65 ; of San
Thome, &c., 97 ; of Tinnevelly,
225 ; for betel and tobacco,
236.
Renters of Bengal, 226.
Respondentia bonds, iii, 5, 5 n3, 73,
333.
Reuss, Prince de, 403, 403 n3.
Reunion, 72 nl. See Islands, The.
Revenue ; Councils for Bengal and
Bihar, xxiii, 130, 230, 231 ;
regulations in Bengal, xxxi, 233 ;
Madras Board of, Ixii, 402, 413 ;
Calcutta system of, 207 ; Bengal
Department of, 228.
Revolution in Madras, The ; events of,
xli-xUii, 284-302 ; Directors'
decision on, xliv, 312, 314 rel,
317 «3 ; Baker's account of,
Revolution in Madras — cont.
284-288 ; Chokappa's account
of, 289, 290; G. Smith's ac-
count of, 290-292; D'Fries's
account of, 292-295, 306, 307;
documents regarding, 294,
295 ; Muttukrishna's account
of, 296 ; Floyer's account of,
298-301 ; precedent cited for,
298 ra2 ; efifected peacefully,
300; Hughes's account of, 301,
302 ; Baker's comments on, 308.
Rice ; price of, 226.
Richardson, Commander George ; en-
quiry into his conduct, 17,
17 n2 ; carries documents, 52,
79 ; mentioned, 38.
Riddell, Commander Thomas, 69.
Roberts, Francis, 346, 346 nl.
Roberts, John, 304, 304 nl.
Roberts, Letitia, 124 n.2. See Ironside.
Roberts, Rev. Robert, 124 n2.
Roberts, Captain Roger E., xxxiii, 262.
Robertson, Rev. Andrew, 8, 8 n3.
Robins, Benjamin, 22 ?i4.
Rochford, George, xxvii, 232, 232 »2.
Rohillas, The ; cause of war with, xxxi,
xxxiii, 227 n2 ; the Mogul de-
feats, 187; mentioned, 112 nl.
Rohilkhand ; Marathas withdraw from,
xxvi, 192.
Ross, Andrew ; his obstruotiveness, 46 ;
note on, 46 nl ; remonstrance
of, 216, 216 nl ; appUes to the
Supreme Court, 311.
Ross, Mrs. Mary Clara, 317.
Ross, Colonel Patrick ; Chief Engineer,
XXXV, 314 ; note on, 314 n3 ;
visits England, 317.
Rous, Thomas, 106, 106 ji2,
Rous, Commander Thomas Bates ;
commands the Britannia, 113,
118 ; note on, 113 n5.
Rowe, Mr., 415.
Royala Punt. See Rajah Pandit.
Roy Royan, Royryan {Rairaiyan), 207,
207 »2, 233, 233 n2.
Ruby Brokerage, 310.
Rulm-ud-daula, Ruccun ud Dowlah ;
the Nizam's Minister, xiv, 47,
47 k2 ; negotiates a treaty,
xiv, 108.
Eumbold, Sir Thomas ; his prospects
of ruling Bengal, xxv, 167,
157 n3 ; Governor of Madras,
xliv, 315, 317, 318, 321; his
career, xlv, 315 Ji4 ; is created
a baronet, xlvii, 331 nl ;
(1) Disbanded in 1766. Baised as a Highland regiment in 1793.
(2) Baised in 1781 and disbanded in 1784.
462
Rumbold, Sir Thomas — cont.
negotiates with Basalat Jang,
xlvii ; his discourtesy, xlviii,
328; resigns, xlviii, xlix, 331,
333; in Parliament, 186;
Directors' orders to, 321 ; criti-
cism of, 327, 329 ; petitions to,
365, 366 ; alleged venality of,
366 ; his secretary, 380 w2 ;
mentioned, lix, 29 m2, 322, 324,
342.
Rumbold, Captain William, xlvii, 326.
Russell, Claud ; member of the Minor-
ity, xl, 294, 306 ; nominated
Resident at Tanjore, xli, xliii,
284, 289, 299, 306 ; claims pro-
tection for Pigot, xlii, 290 ;
suspended by the Majority, xlii,
292, 295, 298, 300, 306 ; marries
Leonora Pigot and leaves India,
xlv, 314 ; note on, 15 m3 ; sails
from Bengal, 168 ; returns to
Madras, 257, 257 ral, 259 ; mem-
ber of Circuit Committee, 268,
272, 285, 289, 299, 306; sup-
ports Lord Pigot, 289 ; nomi-
nated Second of Council, 294 ;
gives an entertainment, 311 ;
Chief at Vizagapatam, 367 ;
mentioned, xxxviii, 15, 54, 258,
270, 278, 281, 303.
Russia ; declares war on Turkey, Ixvi,
412; Empress of, 395, 412,
412 n2.
Sadleir, Anthony; aids Whitehill,
xliv ; is commissioned to Tipu,
lii, 355, 355 n\ ; his duel with
Macartney, Ivi, 359, 359 ral,
364 ; sails for England, 93, 96 ;
his career, 96 m2 ; Resident at
Bandarmalanka, 264, 264 ni ;
his treatment of the people,
264 ; enquiry into his conduct,
264 ; his charges against
Daniell, 380, 381 ; Chief at
Masulipatam, 380, 381 ; re-
called, 393.
Sadr Adalat, chief court, 233, 233 »7.
Sadr Diwani Adalat, chief civil court,
233, 233 k9.
Sadr Nizamat Adalat, chief criminal
court, 233, 233 ral3.
Sadras ; mission of Palk and Vansit-
tart to, vi, 30 m3, 60, 97 «1 ;
lady prisoners at, xxxiv ; cap-
tured by the British, 1 ;
Sadras — cont.
occupied by the French, 83 nl ;
wreck near, 91 re2 ; Jean Law
at, 356.
Safdar Ali, Nawab of the Camatic,
106 to4.
Sahu Raja, 2, 2 n2.
Saif-ud-daula, Nawab of Bengal ; ill-
ness of, 126 ; note on, 126 w5.
Saif-ul-mulk, son of Walajah,. 59 n\.
St. Helena ; G. Vansittart at, xxxviii ;
Palk at, 55, 71 ; the Bazetts of,
129 w2; Comeille of, 274,
274 ?i2; mentioned, 51, 109.
St. Ignatius's beans, 93, 93 «2.
St. Jago. (See Santiago.
St. Lubin, Chevalier, xlvi, 317, 317 nA.
St. Rita ; church of, 11 ml.
St. Thomas ; shrine of, 10 n\.
St. Thomas's Mount ; Haidar Ali at,
xiv, xvi, 30 n\, 42 n2, 105, 106 ;
Lord Pigot confined at, xli,
286, 289, 290, 292, 295, 296,
301, 306, 312; attempted re-
moval of Pigot from, xlii, 287,
289, 290 ; Pigot brought from,
xliv ; Walajah visits, 28, 83 ;
note on, 28 n\ ; raided by
Haidar's cavalry, 57 ; Law-
rence's house at, 58, 83 nl
Caillaud's action at, 102 n\
Morse's house at, 119, 135
artillery headquarters at, 300;
301 ; Stone resides at, 309, 313
convivialities at, 311 ; mutiny
at, 360 ml ; mentioned, 48,
48 m2.
St. Thom6 Set San Thom6.
Salaries, Civil. See Pay.
Salbai, Treaty of. See Treaties.
Salempores. See Textiles.
Salmon, Mr., 275.
Salsette ; occupied by the British,
xxxiv, 249, 250, 250 ml ; ceded
to the Company, xxxvi, li ;
advantages of, 252 ; mode of
acquisition of, 273 ; retention
of, 280 ; Lane at, 309.
Salt ; trade in, xxvii, 80.
Samulkota ; Zemindar of, 23 ; Lieut.
T. Palk at, 87 ; Madge's com-
mand at, 98, 115 ; insurgent
Poligars near, 136, 153 ; John
Palk at, 151.
Sanad : granted to Dupleix, 60, 60 m2 ;
granted by the Revenue Council,
233, 233 m4..
Sanders, Revj Erasmus, 64.
Sangavaram, 23.
Sankarama Chetti, 277, 280.
San Salvador, 13.
463
San Thom6 ; the Renter of, xvii, 97 ;
Sir E. Hughes at, xlii, 290;
raided by Haidar's forces, 1,
57 ; note on, 10 nl ; French
prisoners lodged at, 325 ;
. Baker's house at, 359.
Santiago, one of the Cape Verd Islands,
336.
Sanyasis, Seneassis ; robbers posing
as religious mendicants, xxvii ;
account of, 219, 220 ; note on,
219 ra4 ; Rennell attacked by,
260 n2.
Satgarh fort, Iv, 354.
Sattara, 2.
Saunders, Admiral Sir Charles, 6, 6 »7.
Saunders, Edward, 267, 267 n3.
Saunders, Thomas ; his selection of
Palk, vi, vi »2, vii ; Deputy
Chairman, xiv, 60 nS, 70, 70 n2 ;
letter to, 60 ; leaves the Direc-
torate, 83, 89, 89 n3 ; note on,
83 n2 ; mentioned, 71.
Saunders, Mr., 121.
Sautgur. See Satgarh.
Savage, Henry, 15, 15»1.
Saxe Teschen, Duke of, 400.
School ; Ashburton Grammar, v ;
Ottery St. Mary, Ixii, 372;
Charity, 91 n2 ; Winchester,
124 m2; biU, 375; at Newing-
ton, 402.
Sclater, Ehza, xxxvii. See Draper.
Sclater, May, xxxvii, 271 ra4.
Scott, Colonel Caroline, vii, 112 ml.
Scott (Scott-Waring), Major John,
iv wl.
Scott, Commander, 54.
Scrafton, Luke ; a Commissioner, xx,
116,117; note on, 116 ra6;
mentioned, 15, 15 nl.
Seale, Mary, 46 ni. See Stone.
Secret Committee. See Committee.
Seer, a measure of weight, 226, 226 nl.
Seerpoor. See Sira.
Select Committee. See Committee.
Seneassies. See Sanyasis.
Sera, Serah. See Sira.
Serajah Doulah. See Siraj-ud-daula.
Serampore, Iviii, 376.
Seringapatam ; Haidar's reverse near,
xxi ; promised to Walajah, xxi,
184 ; passengers sent prisoners
to, xlvii, 330 nl ; Tipu's
prisoners at, U, lii ; closed
gates of, Ix, 392 ; Haidar at,
24, 47, 153 ; should be attacked,
25 ; death of Mathews at,
27 nl ; expected capture of.
Seringapatam — cont.
33, 107 ; Marathas advance on,
35, 183 ; Brathwaite a prisoner
at, 176 n3 ; Gray deputed to,
330, 330 nS ; proposed march
on, 351 re3.
Servants ; necessary suite of, IvLii, 357.
Setteavaram, 28.
Seven Magans, The, of Tripassore, 271,
271 nl.
Seven Wells, The ; water supply from,
315 »3.
Shah Alam, Emperor ; expected de-
thronement of, xvi, 40, 40 n5 ;
abandons the British for the
Marathas, xxiii, xxxi, 231 n4 ;
his victory over the Rohillas,
xxiii, 187 ; in subjection to the
Marathas, xxvi, 193 ; is de-
prived of Kora and Allahabad,
231 n4. See also Mogul, The.
Shannon, Mr., 6.
Shatab Rai, Raja ; Naib Diwan of
Bihar, xxvi, 206 »3 ; is removed
from office, 206.
Shattur, Shatore, 25.
Shaw, Commander, 221.
Shaw, Mrs., 317.
Shaw Rajah, 2. See Sahu Raja.
Shelbume, William Petty, Earl of;
becomes a Minister, 30 ; his
debt to L. SuHvan, 188 ; his
bills with PeUing & de Fries,
326 ; Prime Minister, 353 nl ;
Marquess of Lansdowne, 388 n2,
398.
Sheveram ; cantonment at, Ixii, 391.
Ships : —
Ajax : French ship, xxxvii, 270,
271.
Albion: 239.
Ankerwyke, 266, 269.
Anson, diamonds sent by, 34 ;
damaged cloth in, 36 ; Com-
mander Lennox of, 50 ; men-
tioned, 13, 38, 41, 45, 52, 57,
122, 126, 139.
Aquilon : French ship, 271.
Asia, no.
* Aurora, frigate ; Commissioners
sail in, xx, 30 nZ, 119 ; loss of
Vansittart in, xxii, 184 ; leaves
the Cape, 125, 130, 133, 134;
anxiety for, 136, 138, 139, 148 ;
given up for lost, 149, 150,
154, 157 ; believed wrecked
off Madagascar, 158, 161 ;
mentioned. 111 «2, 124, 131,
132.
* Ships of the Royal Navy.
464
Ships — (xmt.
Barker, General ; Eumbold sails
in, 329, 331, 333.
Berrington ; carries Hastings to
England, 361, 368.
Bessborough, 317.
Bridgwater, 220.
Britannia ; passengers of 1770
by, xviii, 121, 122 ; carries
Clive home in 1767, 16 ; Com-
mander Rous of, 113k5, 118;
madeira sent by, 141, 173 ;
mentioned, 123, 138, 163, 175.
Camden, Lord ; carries the Palks
home, viii, 14 ; Commander N.
Smith of, 14, 245 »6 ; condition
of cargo of, 29, 50 ; mentioned,
34, 38.
Carnatic, 173.
Chatham, 93.
ChesterfieM, arrives at Limerick, 7.
Clive, 84.
Colebrooke ; H. Vansittart, jun.,
sails in, 157, 163 ; General
Joseph Smith goes home in,
251, 255 ; mentioned, 174.
*C(rrmorant ; carries despatches,
326.
Cornwallis, 359.
*Coventry, frigate ; with the
squadron, 255, 257 ; employed
in the Bed Sea, 312, 320.
Cuddalore, sloop ; Commander G.
Baker of, 171 m3.
^Cumberland, 5.
Devonshire, 13, 29.
*Dolphin, frigate ; sails for India,
129, 158 ; carries Company's
opium, 255 ; mentioned, 263.
Draper, 353.
Dublin ; damaged by explosion,
376.
Dutten ; Tom Palk arrives in,
74 n3 ; passengers for England
by, 93 ; diamonds sent by, 94 ;
mentioned, 75 »1, 103, 107,
169.
Eagle, 232.
*Eagle ; arrives in advance of the
squadron, 328.
Edgcote ; arrives at Limerick, 7.
Egmont ; diamonds sent by, 90
Commander Mears of, 233
Russell and Stone sail in, 314
mentioned, 103, 105, 316.
Europa, 69.
*Experiment ; takes a French
privateer, 7.
Ganges, 333.
Ships — cont.
George, King ; wrecked in 1721,
91 »2.
Glatton ; Commander Doveton of,
53.
Grafton, Duke of, 112, 119.
*Grampus, 5.
Grantham ; Orme and Palk taken
by the French in, vii.
Greenwich ; Fletcher sails for the
Cape in, 304, 307, 309.
Grenville ; Lord Pigot arrives in,
253, 257, 259 ; orders received
by, 267 ; mentioned, 40, 89,
263, 273, 275, 292.
Greyhound, packet ; Macartney
leaves Madras for Bengal in,
362, 371.
Hampshire ; General R. Smith
goes home in, 113 ; mentioned,
163.
*Hawke ; sloop of war ; carries
Coote to Basra, 142, 144, 146 ;
is sent to the Cape, 194.
Hector, 53, 57, 58, 69, 73, 76, 83,
219.
Hillsborough ; carries home G.
Vansittart, xxxvii, 266, 268 ;
her slow progress, xxxviii, 271.
Holland, Lord, 163, 180, 182, 183.
Horsenden, 1.48.
Hoiighton, 150.
Huntingdon ; Commander Pigou
of, 271.
John and James, schooner, 16, 17.
Juno, 359.
Kingston, Duke of ; at the Cape
with Aurora, 125 ; homeward
passengers by, 316, 317.
Lapwing, packet ; " freighted
with complaints," 186 ; men-
tioned, 116, 130, 134. 144, 164,
19r, 202, 206.
Lioness ; carries Verelst home,
113; Macpherson leaves Madras
in, 311, 313 ; mentioned, 90.
Lively, 5.
London ; G. Baker commands,
171 ™3 ; Dalrymple commands,
257 m2.
Madras Merchant, 221.
Mansfield, Lord, 225.
Manship ; C. Gregorie commands,
411 ; mentioned, 417.
Mercury, 40.
Minerva, 29.
Montague ; T. Brettell commands,
376 ; burnt at her moorings,
376, 377.
Sliips of the Royal Navy.
465
Ships — conf.
Morse, 141.
NuTicy, ketch; sent to the Red
Sea, 332.
Nassau ; carries Du Pr6 home,
xxix, 210, 212 ; Goodlad takes
passage by, 211, 214 ; men-
tioned, 216.
Nathalia, Danish ship ; seized
by Haidar, 330 »1.
Norfolk, 333.
North, Lord, 179, 317.
Nottingham, 40, 211, 255.
*Nymph ; arrives in advance of
the squadron, 328.
Osterley ; at Anjengo, 13 ; cap-
tured, 329.
Pacific ; her mileage on homeward
voyage, 13, 13 nl.
Pigot ; her sailing delayed, Ivi,
357 re3, 362; G. Richardson
commands, 17 n2, 79; men-
tioned, 17, 29, 34, 35, 38, 57,
360.
PoTisborne ; Thomas Ley, of, 149,
163, 190, 190 nl; S. Hough
commands, 190 jil.
Portfield ; arrives at Limerick, 7.
Portland, Duke of, 164.
Queen , small-pox on board, 76.
Resolution, 242.
Rochford, ¥10.
Rodney, 379, 380.
*8alisbury ; flagship of Sir E.
Hughes, xxxvi, 255; carries
merchandize, xxxvi, 256 ; men-
tioned, 288, 313.
Salisbury ; P. Bromfield com-
mands, 258.
Sarah, late Madras Merchant, 221.
* Seahorse; sails for Malabar, 255 ;
is sent to China, 311.
Speke, 170.
*Stag , at the Cape with Aurora,
125, 134 ; her mission to Persia,
131 ; Lieut. Johnson of, 134 ;
mentioned, 177.
Steevens, Admiral ; quick passage
of, 13.
Success ; under orders for
Basra, 5.
Sultanissa Begam ; trades to
Manila, 54, 74 ; mentioned, 73.
*Superb ; arrives in advance of
the squadron, 328.
Surprise, packet ; voyage of R.
Palk, jun., in, lii, 333, 336;
D. Asquith commands, Hi, 337,
350 ; death of Palk in, Ivi,
Ships ; Surprise — cont.
336, 340; at Limerick, 336,
344 ; returns to India, 354,
380 ; mentioned, liv, 341, 343,
351, 352, 361, 379.
*Swallow, sloop of war ; carries
despatches regarding the revo-
lution, xliii, 288, 298, ,306;
mentioned, 253.
Swallow, packet ; voyage to Gom-
broon, 5 ; carries Macartney
from Bengal, 374 ; mentioned,
417.
Swan ; trades to Pegu, 14 nl, 29.
Syren, sloop ; carries home news
of capture of Calcutta, 7.
Talbot, 333.
Thames, 94, 108.
Triton ; Hon. W. Elphitistone com-
mands, 202 ; carries Fletcher
home, 216 ; mentioned 312.
Valentine ; aground near Madras,
314 ; mentioned, 80.
Vansittart, 153.
Watson, Admiral, 59, 76, 77.
Worcester ; R. Hall commands,
245 «5.
*York, 125.
Shirpi, Sirpi. See Sira.
Shittabroy. See Shatab Rai.
Sholingarh, I, 352 nl.
Shore, John, 413, 414.
Short, Thomas ; letter from, 245.
Shortt, Major John ; influence of
hospitality on his promotion,
Iviii ; letter from, 365 ; note
on, 365 nl.
Shuja-ud-daula ; Nawab Vizier of
Oudh, xvi, 45, 45 n5, 88 nl ;
is supported by the British
against the Marathas, xxiii,
187, 207, 238; receives Kora
and Allahabad, xxxi ; his pay-
ments, xxxi, 231 ; death of,
xxxiii, li, 320 nl ; his successor,
xxxiii, li, 249 ; the Begams
seize his treasure, li ; expected
rupture with, 88, 123 ; reduces
his army, 93 ; deemed un-
trustworthy, 102 ; is reconciled
to the Mogul, 110; Barker's
influence with, 112 nl ; ex-
cellence of his cavalry, 116 ;
hostilities with, 153, 153 n3 ;
his martial aims, 192, 192 n2 ;
Hastings's treaty with, 222,
227 n2 ; at war with the Jats,
237. See Nawab Vizier.
Sibbendy, 67, 67 n2.
Ships of the Royal Navy.
466
Sikhs, The ; defeated by the Abdali,
xvi, 40, 40 »i3.
Sikandar Jah, son of Nizam All, 67,
67 ml.
Silesia ; tranquillity in, Ixvi ; the
Emperor hopes to regain, 405 ;
no attempt expected on, 409.
Silk factories, 206. See Filature.
SUver ; scarcity of, 73 ; purchase of
plate, 198. See Money. See
Specie.
Simcoe, Colonel, 416.
Sindia, Mahadaji. See Mahadaji
Sindia.
Sira or Sirpi ; ceded to the Marathas,
xxi ; occupied by Raghoba,
xxxii, 235, 235 n3, 237 ; taken
by Madhu Rao, 23, 35, 42, 47,
49 ; situation of, 23 to7 ; terri-
tory of, 24 ; importance of,
25 ; formerly under Nizam, 33 ;
Haidar reduces, 61, 61 m2.
Siraj-ud-daula ; a title of Walajah,
42, 42?i5.
Sirpi, Shirpi. See Sira.
Sitaram Pandit, C. ; reports on Chica-
cole, Iviii, Jix ; letter from, 365 ;
petitions from, 365-367.
Sitaram Raja, P. See Sitaram Raz.
Sitaram Ranga Rao, R; letter from,
366.
Sitaram Raz, Sittaramrauze, Sitteram
Rauze ; chief Zemindar in
Chicacole, xxx, 28, 28 »i5 ;
oppression by, lix, 365, 365 ra4,
366, 367 ; pays kists, 35 ; rents
Chicacole, 43, 50 ; rents Vizia-
nagram only, 48 ; his arrogance,
65, 65 tc3 ; his power, 200, 201 ;
recommends a sepoy as dubash',
366, 867 ; kills Gajapati Raz,
367.
Sivaganga, Maravar of ; a prisoner,
xxxix, 278 ; called the Little
Maravar and Nalkottai Pohgar,
194 m3. See Maravar of Kali-
yarkoil. See Nalkottai Poligar.
Sivaji, 2 n.2.
Skottowe, Commander Nicholas, 231,
238.
Sloper, Mrs. Kitoria ; letter from, 82 ;
note on, 82 nZ.
Sloper, Robert, 82 ra3, 135.
Sloper, Lt. -General Robert; C.-in-C.
in India, lix, 370, 370 -nZ, 371 ;
sits in the Madras Council, 371 ;
favours King's officers, 379.
Small, Martha, 17 wl. See Pybus,
Mrs. Martha.
Small pox. See Diseases.
Smerdon, Futwood ; letter from, 374.
Smerdon, Mrs. (Futwood), 375.
Smerdon, Ensign ; his shortcomings,
xvii, 84, 85 ; his father blame-
worthy, 84 ; in the Circars, 87 ;
resigns the service, 98 ; runs
away, 115 ; his adventures, 119
Smerdon, Mrs., mother of Ensign
Smerdon, 119.
Smith, Mrs. Amelia, wife of General
R. Smith, 113 ral, 168. See
Hopkins, Amelia.
Smith, Charles ; a member of Council,
xliv, 174, 179, 314, 314 »1;
provisional Governor, 1 ; Mayor
of Madras, 86 ; charge against,
146 ; note on, 146 nl ; his
marriage, 196 ; visits Pondi-
cherry, 210.
Smith, George ; free merchant, xii,
7 n4, 53 nl, 213 ; a tanka-
holder, xl, xHi, 276 ; denounces
the revolution, xlii, 291 ; fore-
man of inquest jury, xhv ; at
Canton, 7 ; his experience at
Manila, 53 ; letters from, 53, 73,
213, 216, 290 ; his debts to Palk
and Vansittart, 53, 248 ; his
marriage, 95, 95 JiS ; objects to
sign new covenants, 213, 217 ;
is interdicted from trade, 213 ;
is ordered to England, 216 ;
his protest, 217 ; his early
career, 217.
Smith, John ; Chief at Vizagapatam,
50, 50 m4, 78, 78 k3.
Smith, John Lewin ; Chief at Masuli-
patam, 28, 28 »i3, 43 »2, 65 »2,
100 ; his revenue collections,
28, 35 ; leases Chicacole, 43 ;
settles with Sitaram Raz, 50 ;
50 nZ ; his orders to Colonel
Hart, 66 ; indiscretion of, 67 ;
sails for England, 110 ; Janga-
ma's debt to, 152.
Smith, Joseph, sen. ; Gunner and
Engineer, 23 nl.
Smith, Brig.-General Joseph ; com-
mands the army against Haidar,
xiii, xiv, 23, 47, 49; his com-
mand against Tanjore, xxiv,
164 ; at Trichinopoly, xxvii,
156, 163, 163 ml ; commands
the Maravan expedition, xxviii,
50 m2, 213; resigns, xxviii,
163 m2, 196, 208, 214 ; resumes
command of the Army, xxix,
212, 214 ; supports Walajah in
Council, xxxiv, 246, 249;
arrives at Hyderabad, 23 ;
note on, 23 9il ; advises the
Nizam, . 28, 41 , 42, 47, 49 ;
467
Smith, Brig. -General, Joseph — cont.
complains of Orton, 71 ; re-
ceives Field Deputies, 71 ; his
military capacity, 78, 78 »4 ;
praise of, 81 ; is joined by Wood,
82 »2 ; pursues Haidar, 105 ;
blames WaJajah, 172 ; his house
at Trichinopoly, 176; dis-
approves the Tanjore settle-
ment, 177 ; prepares for Eng-
land, 207; Dutch protest to,
224; captures Tanjore, 225,
278 ; sails for England, 251, 254,
255, 255 nl ; mentioned, 26, 32,
68, 84, 87, 91, 317 -nA.
Smith, Mrs. Margaret Aurora, 214. See
Munro, Margaret.
Smith, Commander Nathaniel ; com-
mands the Lord Camden, 14 ;
his opinion of Allum securities,
244 ; is supported by Palk, 245 ;
note on, 245 n&.
Smith, Brig. -General Richard ; repre-
sents Walajah's creditors, xxv,
121; his fortune, 113; note
on, 113 nl; his house in
England, 168 ; mentioned, xlv.
Smith, Captain, 7.
Smith, Mr., supercargo, 5.
Snelling, Lieut. J. ; reveres Mathews,
xxxvii, 261 ; death of, xxxvli,
321, 321 nl ; as cadet, 115,
115 »3 ; is aided by Palk, 115,
116, 147, 147 «3 ; letters from,
191, 261, 281 ; iEness of, 261 ;
in the Circars, 281.
Solo. See Sulu.
Somner, Mr., 64. See Sumner.
Sonnaut. See Coinage.
Sooloo. See Sulu.
Soubah, The. See Subah.
Soucar, soukar ; Benfield as, xl, 236 ;
bills, 35, 35 nl; security, 114,
235, 371.
Souoey, 113.
South Molton, 384, 384 «3.
South Sea Annuities, 8.
Souza, Antonio de ; an executor for
Goodlad, 211 ; free merchant,
211 «4 ; his piece-goods Associa-
tion, 216 ; his assignment on
Tanjore, 276; mentioned, 419.
Spain ; war apprehended with, xxv,
148 ; King of, 8, 8w 7, 53, 54.
Specie ; export from India of, xxxviii,
252, 307. See Money.
Spencer, Mr., in Switzerland, Ixiv,
378 ; returns to England, 383,
384, 385 ; communicates with
Spencer, Mr. — cont.
Sir R. Palk, 388; his profi-
ciency in French, 390; his
expenditure, 405.
Sport ; plays, horse-racing and cock-
fighting, xxxvii, 261 ; card-
playing, xlviii, 17 ; gaming,
232, 233, 327.
Squadron, The; under Admiral
Watson, X ; under Sir R. Har-
land, 159, 181 ; reinforcement
for, 171 ; sails from Madras for
Bombay, 201 ; under Sir E.
Hughes at Madras, xxxvi ; at
Bombay, 213, 263, 266, 273,
301 ; escorts Supreme Council
and Judges, 273; imder Sir
E. Vernon, 322, 323 ; Hughes
resumes command of, 330; in
action(i) with the French, 336.
Srirangam ; Lawrence's victory at,
xi, 35 n2 ; temples at, 2, 4,
4 n3 ; visited by Ohokappa,
&c., 278.
Sri Salupathi, 277, 280.
Stables, John; his abilities, lix, 379;
advises Abraham, 361 ; note on,
361 nl ; prepares for England,
413.
Stair, John Dalrymple, Earl of, 403 n2.
Stark, Dr. James, 334, 334 nl.
Starke, Richard, 64, 64 nl.
Staunton, George ; a Peace Com-
missioner, ]i, 355, 355 nl ;
Secretary to Macartney, 356.
Staveley, Rev. Samuel, vi.
Steevens, Commodore Charles, 6, 6 rel,
12 Ml.
Sterne, Laurence, xxxvii, 271 ?i4.
Stevens, Major William ; kUled at
Pondicherry, xlvii, 325 ; note
on, 325 n3.
Stewart (or Stuart), John ; Secretary,
Bengal, xxv, 262, 262 ra2 ; desig-
nated Secretary, Madras, 149,
149 ral ; his nomination can-
celled, 157, 157 n2 ; dismissal
of, 252, 262 ; note on, 252 ra3 ;
associates with Macpherson,
264, 264 Kl ; saOs for England,
266, 266 ml.
Stibbert, Brig.-General Giles, xlv, 319.
Stock, China, 72.
Stock, India ; voting power of holders
of, xxii, 91 ra4, 127 ; effect of
Tanjore success on price of,
185; Dunning's, 242; Palk's
dealings in, 243; Colebrooke's
sale of, 244.
d' Vide p. 459, note 1, and p. 472, note 1.
468
Stone, Mi-s. Mary, 48, 184, 195. See
Seale.
Stone, John Maxwell ; Secretary, Mili-
tary Department, xii, 46 n.4 ;
describes military operations,
XV, 47, 48 ; his opinion of the
situation, xxi, 142-144; in
Council, xxix, 195, 218 ; sup-
ports Walajah, xxxiv, 246,
246 m9, 249; member of the
Minority, xl, 294, 306; sus-
pended by the Majority, xlii,
288, 292, 295, 298, 300, 306;
sails for England, xlv, 314 ;
letters from, 46, 104, 142, 180,
194, 197, 267, 271 ; note on,
46 m4 ; an executor for Griffiths,
72, 72 Ji5, 76 ; will train Tom
Palk, 91, 91 7i6 ; recommends
H. Griffiths, 140; letter to,
154 ; his prospects, 186, 195 ;
recommends Goodlad for Coun-
cil, 198 ; his appointments,
212 ; advises H. Griffiths, 226 ;
agent for Palk, 251, 256; his
offer to Stuart, 286 ; resides
at the Mount, 309, 313; his
affairs, 326, 328, 331 ; his
houses in Fort St. Gteorge, 326,
326 w2 ; mentioned, 73, 73 nA,
79, 225, 241, 278.
Stonhouse, Rev. Sir James, xiii, xvi,
37 ml.
Stonhouse, Sir John, xiii, 30 k3, 37 nl.
Stonhouse, Lucia ; marries E. Palk,
jun., xiii, xvi, 131, 131 k5, 134,
136 ; her death, xvi, 202, 204 ;
epitaph on, xvii, xvii n\ ; ex-
pected arrival of, 100, 100 m3.
See Palk, Mrs. Lucia.
Stonhouse, Martha ; marries Arthur
Vansittart, 37 n\. See Vansit-
tart, Mrs. Martha.
Stonhouse, Sarah ; arrives at Madras,
xiii ; her suitors, xiii, 29 nQ,
131, 131 ra4 ; C. Bourchier's
opinion of, 37 ; marries George
Vansittart, 37 nl. See Va.nsit-
tart, Mrs. Sarah.
Stonhouse, Lieut. Thomas ; expected
arrival of his brother and sister,
100 ; note on, 100 ?i2 ; will
visit Calcutta, 115, 204, 219.
Stonhouse, Mr., 100, 115.
Storey, Dr. Robert, 380, 380 nl.
Storm ; at Surat, xxxiv, 247.
Stowey, Philip ; Civil Architect, xlviii,
324 nl ; letter from, 324.
Stracey, Edward ; Maokay inform^
against, xxix, 217, 217 nl ;
accompanies an embassy, 42 ;
Stracey, Edward — cont.
note on, 42 »2 ; in Council,
218.
Stratton, George ; a member of the
Majority, xl, 289, 294, 306 ;
suspension of, xli, xlii, xliv,
285, 294, 300, 306; unrecog-
nized by Bombay, xliii, 311 ;
verdict against, xliv, 315 nl ;
sails for England, xlv, 314 ; his
marriage, 72, 78 ; note on,
72 ra6 ; Chief at Vizagapatam,
197, 252, 366 ; moves to Madras,
255 ; Pigot's charge against,
285 ; his pi'otest, 285 ; usurps
the Government, 286, 288,
288 ra3, 290, 295, 296; his
relations with Walajah, 289,
297 ; Munro's attitude towards,
291 ; records arrest of Lord
Pigot, 295 ; his orders as to
cowles, 310 ; is authorized to
hold Quarter Sessions, 311 ;
to be tried, 314 ; dismisses
Munro, 318 ; his orders of
suspension reversed, 322 ; men-
tioned, 94, 135, 259, 270, 271,
299.
Stratton, John, 17 n3.
Stratton, Sarah, 17 ra3, 110 mS. See
Mackay, Mrs. Sarah.
Stuart, Major- General James ; as
Colonel is ofiered Tanjore com-
mand, xli, 284, 284 «3, 285;
accepts Pigot's hospitality, xli,
286 ; plans and executes the
arrest of Pigot, xli, 289 ; is
suspended, tried and acquitted,
xliv, 317, 365 »2; his com-
mand of the army, li, 286, 295,
300 ; attacks Cuddalore, li ;
is dismissed and deported, li,
365 w2 ; Pigot's charge against,
295 ; illness of, 311 ; is expected
at Tanjore, 311, 313; verdict
against, 315 ml.
Subah, Soubah ; original meaning of,
1, lm2 ; ruler of the Deccan, 23,
23 m2 ; crosses the Kistna, 23,
24 ; complains of British delay,
25 ; desires aid, 31 ; a treaty
suggested with, 32 ; Walajah's
enmity to, 36 ; dilatoriness of,
41 ; confirms grant of Carnatic,
42 ; his alliance with Haidar,
66 ; alarmed by British advance,
67 ; seeks peace, 67, 199 ; is
expected to join Marathas, 132 ;
Walajah subject to, 1 81 ; weak-
ness of, 194 ; mentioned, xx,
138. See Nizam AU.
469
Subahdar of the Decoan ; his alleged
grant to Dupleix, 97 ?il. See
Subah.
Subrahihanya Chetti, 136.
Subu Chetti, G., 280.
Sudaba (Sudasheo Rao, Sudasheo
Chimnaji) ; nephew of Baji
Rao, xxxvi ; a pretender claims
the Peshwaship as, xxxvi, 281,
281 n\, 282, 282 n2 ; is executed
xxxvii ; his career, 281, 281 ral,
309.
Suez ; as route for mails, xxxi, xlix,
282, 292, 294, 306 ; news sent
homeward via, xliii, 298 ; White-
hill arrives by way of, xliv ;
passengers via, xlvii, 330,
330 wl; difficulties of route
by, 330.
Suifren de Saint-Tropez, Pierre Andr6
de ; his engagements with
Hughes, I, lii, 336(1) ; delivers
prisoners to Haidar, 1.
Sulivan, Benjamin, 29 «3.
Sulivan, John ; sails for Europe, xxxvii,
270, 270 nl, 271 ; Resident at
Tanjore, Iv, 332 nl, 364, 364 m4;
his fortune, Iv, 354; assistant
to WhitehUl, 29 ; notes on,
29 n3, 354 ra4 ; returns from
China, 123, 123 n2 ; is respon-
sible for Tom Palk, 272.
Sulivan, Laurence ; corresponds with
Palk, xiii ; is related to Wood,
xxi, 117 ; his career, xxi, xxii,
30 w2 ; his financial troubles,
xxii, 79, 127, 128, 188, 189;-
in Parliament, xxii, 86, 86 nl,
242, 245; a candidate for
Madras, xxii, xxv, 186, 193,
197, 210, 215 ; his estimate of
Walajah, xlix, 332 ; memoran-
dum by, 63 ; letters from, 79,
126, 188, 189, 190, 241, 243,
244, 245 ; out of the Direction,
83, 222 ; rejoins the Direction,
91, 91 re3, 112, 149, 157, 162;
his integrity, 117 ; Palk's in-
fluence with, 118 ; opposes
over-staffing, 123 ; Hastings
corresponds with, .139, 141,
203, 208, 219, 220 ; desires post
of Commissioner, 171, 190 ; his
influence, 175 ; a patron of
Goodlad, 185, 186 ; letters to,
191, 243 ; is expected in India,
191, 193, 197, 210, 215 ; papers
to be shown to, 227 ; his ill-
Sulivan, Laurence — cont.
fortune, 240 ; fails to meet
Dunning, 242; Tom Palk's
hopes from, 327 ; mentioned,
ix, 30, 60, 60ral, 106, 166,
329 n2, 331, 331 n3.
Sulivan, Mrs. (Laurence), 188.
Sulivan, Richard Joseph ; Secretary
to Government, xh, 294, 295 ;
demands WTitten orders, xli,
285, 285 nl ; his mission to
Calcutta, li, 310 ?i2 ; note on,
29to3.
Sulivan, Stephen ; seeks loans from
Palk, xxii, 205, 240; goes to
India, xxii ; his appointments,
xlix, 329, 329 »2, 332; is
deputed to Bengal, 1 ; aids
his father, 188 ; letters from,
205, 240, 241, 331 ; notes on
205 nl, 332 nl ; to stand for
Parliament, 242, 242 n2
Hughes's civility to, 331.
Sulivan, Mrs. (Stephen), 331.
Sulu, Solo, Sooloo, Zoloo Islands
sepoys from, 29 ; Dalrymple',
mission to, 29 n4 ; reduction of,
79 ; treaty with Sultan of,
257 )i2 ; attack by natives on
259.
Sumatra ; restoration of places in, 9
Port Marlborough in, 17 n4.
Sumner, William Brightwell ; Hast
ings's debt to, 118, 123, 123 Ji4,
139, 139 nl ; note on, 118 nl
mentioned, 64.
Supervisors, The. See Commissioners,
Reform,
Supreme Council. See Council, Su-
preme.
Sujireme Court. See Court of Judi-
cature, Supreme.
Surajah Dowla, in error for Shuja-ud-
daula, (g,!-.,) 153, 153 nS.
Surat ; damage by storm at, xxxiv,
247 ; Goddard's march to,
xlvi, 328 m5 ; Madras force for,
xlvi, 147 m4, 329 ; expedition
against, 250 nl ; Raghoba at,
309 ; mentioned, 21.
Survey of Bengal, RenneU's, xxiii, 167.
Swynfen, Rev. George, v.
Sydenham, Major William, 311.
Syfe ut Dowlah, Nawab. See Saif-
ud-daula.
Syracuse, Seven Tyrants of, 292.
Syringapatam, 24. See Seringapatara.
(1) Vide p. 4.59, note 1, and p. 472, noto 1.
EE
470
Taluk (tdluq), 233, 233 nlO.
Tanaoa, tanaka, tanakaw. See Tanka.
Tanjore City and Port ; siege of, in
1771, xxiv, 165 ; peace con-
cluded by Walajah, xxiv, 166,
172, 174 ; siege and capture of,
in 1773, XXX, 223, 224, 236;
Lord Pigot's visit to, xxxix,
277, 299 ; Russell nominated
Resident at, xli, 284, 289, 299,
306 ; Stephen Sulivan as
Resident at, xUx, 332 ral,
354 »4 ; John Sulivan Resident
at, Iv, 332 nl, 354, 354 nA, 364 ;
rendition of, 109 n\, 306 ;
garrisoned by Walajah, 223,
249 ; Walajah's intentions as
to, 246 ; Kiladar of, 264 ;
delivery to the British of, 264,
266, 268, 269, 270, 271, 274,
275, 276, 283, 296, 312, 312 nl ;
Stuart to command at, 284,
306, 313 ; disapproval of Pigot's
measures at, 288, 306; Ben-
field's visit to, 294 ; mentioned,
325 h3, 418 ?)4.
Tanjore Province ; conquest in 1773
of, XXX, xlvii, 223, 224, 225,
236, 237, 239 ; proposed ruler
for, xxxiv, 254 ; orders for
restitution of, xxxviii, 263,
265, 267, 273, 274, 296,
302 ; Walajah mortgages
revenues of, xl, 276, 278,
291 ; . Hughes's opinion as to,
xlii, 302 ; Brathwaite defeated
in, 1, 176 w3 ; Marathas withdraw
from, 4 ; tribute due from, 46 ;
situation in, 162, 171 ; ex-
pedition of 1771 against, 164,
165, 166, 172, 175, 177, 185;
Maratha views regarding, 237,
265 ; differences in Council as
to, 278 ; Walajah's reluctance
to give up, 283, 296; Pigot's
measures respecting, 296, 316 ;
mentioned, 184, 191, 258.
Tanjore Raja ; Palk's negotiations
with, vi, 3, 3 m5, 4, 60 ; attacks
Eamnad, xxiii, 155 ; is attacked,
deposed and imprisoned, xxx,
223, 224, 225, 236; loses hope,
xxxii, 239 ; is liberated and rein-
stated, xxxviii, xxxix, 270, 271,
272, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 283,
296, 298, 308 ; seizure of grain
by, xl, 276; Benfield's claims
on, xhii, 304 ; to aid against
Poligars, 26; his tribute to
Walajah, 27, 315; cause of
war of 1771 with, 156, 164, ] 72 ;
Tanjore Raja — cont.
his treaty of 1762 with Walajah,
162, 279, 305 ; Walajah's settle-
ment with, 174, 177, 201, 213 ;
his grant of Nagore, 224 ;
Maratha aid expected for, 235,
239 ; restoration of territory to,
263, 265, 267 ; Pigot's gifts to,
278; mentioned, xlii, 23 nl, 311.
Tanka, tanaca, tanaka, tanakaw,
tunoaw ; granted on Tanjore
revenues, xl, 276, 278, 291,
293, 308 ; on Tinnevelly, 236 ;
on Ongole, 248, 248 n2. -
Tannah ; reduction of, 250 ; com-
mand at, 251 ; Lane at, 280.
Tapanoully, 9.
Tapermaul Chitty, 197 «4. See Chip-
permall Chetti.
Taswell, George ; arrival of, 141,
141 tc3, 150, 173.
Taunton, 30 n2.
Tavistock, 220.
Tax, Fortification, 109 w2.
Taylor, James ; his marriage, 95,
95 m4 ; Registrar of Mayor's
Court, 303, 303 n2; his loan
to Walajah, 418 «1 ; men-
tioned, 418.
Taylor, Thomas, 267 nl.
TeUicherry ; Abington's success at,
li ; proposed grants of territory
near, 33 ; Boddam at, 195 ;
ships need convoy north of,
258; mentioned, 193, 250.
Temple, Richard, Earl, 6.
Temple ; charity, 271 ; Jambukistna,
278 ; Madras, 97 nl.
Temples; Srirangam, 2, 4, 4?i3, 278;
views, of, lix, 369.
Teneriffe, 17, 74, 75.
Tenevely. See Tinnevelly.
Textiles, WooUen ; broadcloth, 17, 18 ;
popinjays and auroras, 18,
18 nl ; perpetuanoes, 18, 18 n8.
Textiles, Cotton ; salempores, 41,
41 K.2, 136 ; beteelas (muslin)
and ginghams, 136 ; moorees
(blue goods), 136, 152 ; paint-
ings (chintz), 152, 152 nl ; chey
goods (dyed red with chay
root), 152, 152 nl ; long cloth,
ordinary, 156 ; piece goods,
216, 381.
Thackeray, Jane, 260 ni. See Rennell.
Thomas, Rev. John ; chaplain, 72,
72 nA ; letter from, 76 ; an
executor for Griffiths, 76, 104,
104 nl.
Thomson, Captain, 277, 280.
Thun, Countess of, Ixv, 398.
471
Tinnevelly ; disturbances in, 25 ;
Mahfuz Khan's rebellion in,
102 nl ; expedition against,
176 »3 ; Poligars of, 194 nl ;
the Renter of, 225, 236; de-
based coinage of, 372.
Tipu Sultan ; as Tipu Sahib raids
Madras, xiii, xv, 57, 57 ni ;
reduces Sii-a, xxxii, 23 n7 ;
annihilates Bajllie's force, 1 ;
with the French takes Cudda-
lore, 1 ; defeats Brathwaite, 1,
176 n3 ; as Sultan besieges
Bednur and Mangalore, li ;
negotiates for peace, lii, 96 n2,
351 Ji2, 355, 355 Jil, 358; re-
stores forts and receives Bindi-
gul, Iv, 354 ; closes Camatic
passes, Ix, 381 ; feigns death,
Ix, 381, 391, 392, 393; his
rupture with Nizam and the
Marathas, Ix, 359, 374, 391,
392, *01, 402, 410, 414, 415,
418, 419 ; ravages Adoni, Ix,
414 ; unpopularity of, Ix, 393 ;
attacks Basalat Jang, 259 ;
continues war with British after
Haidar's death, 336 ; Pullar-
ton's operations against, 351 to3.
Tod, Commander Alexander, 351.
Tod, Lt. -Colonel Charles ; marches
from Vellore, 49 ; note on,
49 ?i4 ; is troubled by Smerdon,
85 ; at EUore, 87 ; commands
in the Circars, 98, 115.
Todos Santos, Bay of, 163.
Tolver, Mr., 375.
Tondiman, 26, 26 nl, 162.
Tor Mohun, 171 n3.
Totapalli, Chief of, xvii, 151.
Town Major of Fort St. George ;
Tod as, 49 w4; R. Wood as,
277 n2, 294 ; Lysaght as, 295 ;
Sydenham as, 311.
Trade ; in salt, xxvii, 80 ; in opium,
xxxviii, 221, 237 ; Board of, Ixii,
402, 413 ; depressed in Calcutta,
126 ; bad throughout India, 173,
307 ; civil servants restricted in,
231, 234 ; depressed in Madras,
327, 355.
Tranquebar, 417.
Transylvania, 409.
Travancore ; threatened with attack,
196, 201, 252, 311.
Traytorrens, M. de, 384.
Treaty; suggested in 1767 between
Nizam and the Marathas, 24,
31, 33 ; commercial, with
Sultan of Sulu, 257 »i2 ; sug-
gested between the Camatic
Treaty — cont.
Nawab and the Company, 302.
Treaties :—
Aix-Ia-Chapelle, of 1748, with
France, v, 398 nl.
Allahabad, of 1765, with the
Nawab Vizier ; denounced by
the Majority, xxxiii.
Benares, of 1773 ; with the
Nawab Vizier, xxxi, 222, 227,
227 n2 ; denounced by the
Majority, xxxiii ; cession to
the Vizier under, 231 Ji4 ; men-
tioned, 231.
Camatio-l^anjore, of 1762, xxiii,
xlii, 155, 164, 279; violation
of, by the Raja, 162 ; is
obnoxious to Walajah, 305.
Fyzabad, of 1772, with the
Marathas, 112 rel.
Hyderabad, of, 1766 ; negotiated
by CaUlaud, viii, 62, 62 »2,
102 nl ; reward for negotiating,
ix ; cause of the first Mysore
war, xiii, 60, 60 ni ; men-
tioned, xiv, XV.
Madras, of 1768 ; with the Nizam,
xiv ; negotiated by Ruloi-
ud-daula, 108, 108 m1.
Mangalore, of 1784; with Tipu
Sultan, hi, 355, 355 nl ; Nawab
no party to, Ivi, 358 ; mentioned
Ix, 351 m3.
Mysore-Maratha, of 1772, xxi, 194.
Mysore-Maratha, of 1787 ; between
Tipu and Holkar, Ix.
Oudh, of 1775, negotiated by
Hastings with Asaf-ud-daula ;
provisions of, 248, 249,
Paris, of 1763 ; order based on,
xii, 8 ; construction placed on
eleventh article of, xxiv, 181 ;
ensures tranquillity of the
Carnatic, 156 ; mentioned, 143.
Pondicherry (provisional), of 1754,
vi, 30 to3, 60.
Purandhar, of 1766; with the
Marathas, xxxvi, 273, 282 ; con-
demned by Lane, xxxvi, 280,
280 »5 ; described by Hughes,
xxxvi, 301 ; provisions of,
309 ; mentioned, 307.
St. Thomas's Mount, of 1769 ; with
Haidar, xiv, xvi, 30ral, 106;
Du Pr6's description of, 101 ;
delay in publishing terms of,
103 ; mentioned, xlvii.
Salbai, of 1782 ; with the Mara-
thas( Sindia), li.
Surat, of 1775 ; with the Marathas
(Raghoba), xxxiv.
472
Treaties — cont.
Versailles, of 1783; with the
French, li, 356 ; mentioned, Ivi.
Tricamally, 355. See Trinoomalee.
Triohinopoly ; relief of, xi ; Law-
rence's actions near, xi, 88 ;
powder explosion at, xxvii,
174, 175, 176 ; T. Palk as Pay-
master at, xlv, 354, 357, 358,
392 ; taken by Chanda Sahib,
3 ; French attack on the fort
of, 4, 4 »2 ; tributary to Vijaya-
nagar, 4 ; J. Smith's defence
of, 23 ral ; Walajah visits, 41,
48 ; remains British, 95 ; re-
lieved by CaiUaud, 102 b1 ;
E. Smith at, 113 nl ; Clive
at, 124 n\ ; J. Smith visits,
156, 163 ; Fletcher ordered. to,
163 re2, 209, 212; expedition
from, 162, 165, 175, 184; rock-
fort of, 176 ; is avoided by
Walajah, 218 ; Hay at, 235,
235 w2 ; regiment moved from,
263, 264 ; British garrison of,
268 ; visited by Chokappa,
278 ; depopulation of, 370 ;
mentioned, 190, 223, 315 ni. 370.
Trimbak Rao, xxi.
Trimelivashel, 269.
Trinoomalee, Tricamally, Trincana-
mally ; captured by Hughes,
1, 330 n5 ; surrendered to the
French, 1, Iv, 354, 354 nZ, 355,
355 »3; Asquith at, liii, 342;
restored to the Dutch, Iv, Ivii,
372 ; the squadron at, 174,
314 ; erroneous report of en-
gagement off, 336.(11
Trinomalai, Battle of, xiii, 82 ?i2,
147 K4, 166 nl,
Tripassore, 109 ?i2, 271 ral.
Tripe, Nicholas ; his marriage, v,
180, 180 m3, 245 ra3 ; men-
tioned, 227, 227 n\.
Tripe, Dr., 227 n\, 245, 245 »3.
Trivatore, 17.
Troutback, Samuel, 91, 91»2.
Tulloh, air. and Jlrs., 330 n\.
Timoaw. See Tanka.
Tungabhadra River, Ix.
Turing, Helen, 267, 267 n3.
Turing, John ; regalled from Oudda-
lore, 221 ; note on, 221 ni
his marriage, 267, 267 n3
Mayor of Madras, 303, 311
mentioned, 418.
Turing, Mrs. Mary ; letter from, 267 ;
note on, 267 nl.
Turing, Mary, 221 ra2, 267, 267 to3.
Turing, Dr. Robert, 221 m2, 267 nl.
Turing, Robert, jun., 267, 267 ni.
Turkey, Ixvi, 412.
Tuticorin, 1.
Ujung Salang, Jamseylon, Junk-
seylon, 10, 10?i2.
Ultumgan (aUamgah), 42, 42 m4.
Umdat-ul-Umara ; note on, 59 nl ;
wedding of, 154, 154 ra2 ; his
powers in the Tanjore ex-
pedition, 164 ; opposes the
Kallars, 194, 194 n2 ; eldest son
of Walajah, 246, 246 m8 ; his
character, 303 ; question of his
succession, 312, 312 n2.
United States, Ivii, 363. •
Upton, Colonel John ; envoy to Poona,
XXXV, 251, 253, 253 rel, 255,
258, 258 n2, 309 ; negotiates a
treaty, xxxvi, xlvi, 273 ; note
on, 255 »6 ; at Bombay, 266,
266 n2.
Vaidyanatha Mudali, Vidyanado
Modely,Vaydanadum, 18, 19, 20.
Vaippar, 25.
Vaireambady, 44. See Vaniambadi.
VaMl, vakeel, 24 )i3, 42.
Valgra, 4.
Vallam fort ; reduced, xxiv, 165, 177 ;
garrisoned by the British, xxx,
237.
Vandalur, 105.
Vane, Lady Anne. 292 n\. See Monson.
Vane, Henry, Earl of Darlington,
292 nl.
Vane, William Harry, Viscomit Bar-
nard, 407.
Vaniambadi, Vaireambady, 34, 44,
44 «2.
Vanrixtal, Mr., 131.
Vansittart, Anne (Lady Palk) ; her
marriage, iv, viii, 30 ?i3. jSee
also Palk, Anne (Lady Palk).
Vansittart, Arthur ; father of Governor
Vansittart, viii, 30 w3.
Vansittart, Arthur ; son of Governor
Vansittart, 138 nl.
(1) The fifth and final action between Hughes and Sufflren was fought oft Cuddalore
on the 20th June, 1783. It was the action of the 12th April, 1782, which took place
off Trincomsilee.
473
Vansittart, Mrs. Catherine Ann ; wife
of Henry Vansittart, jun., 361.
See Powney, Catherine.
Vansittart, Edward ; son of George
Vansittart, 112.
Vansittart, Mrs. Emelia, wife of
Governor Vansittart ; in Eng-
land, xxxiii, 260 ; a prisoner,
xxxiv, 83 n\ ; loss of her
husband and son, 130, 133,
138, 138 Til, 248 ; will be guided
by Palk, 134 ; Mrs. Ironside
writes to, 230 ; Petrie's apphca-
tion to, 232 ; her sister, 245,
245 «4 ; Walajah's considera-
tion for, 294 ; mentioned, 18,
18 u2. See aho Morse, Emelia.
Vansittart, Emelia, jun., daughter of
Governor Vansittart ; comes
to India, xxvii, 220, 220 ra2 ;
her marriage, xxvii, xxvii n\,
248 n4; criticism of, 226; at
Calcutta, 227. 238 ; her voyage,
230, 2.30 Kl; refuses Petrie, 232;
at Madras, 317 n\. See Parry.
Vansittart, George, brother of Gover-
nor Vansittart ; at the Haldon
conference, ix ; Palk's brother-
in-law, xii ; visits Madras, xiii,
15, 131 ; his engagement, xiii,
29, 29 7)6, 50 ; at Patna, xxiii,
xxvii, 130, 134, 158, 202 ; sails
for England, xxxvii, xxxviii,
266, 268, 271, 273 ; his opium
venture, xxxviii, 220, 221, 237,
238, 239; letters from, 15, 21,
40, 80, 92, 112, 130, 220, 229 ;
note on, 15 «2 ; his relations
with Clive, 16, 37 ; at Midnapur,
16, 123 ; his marriage, 37 )tl ;
his careless nature, 38 ; his
partners, 92 ; his invitation to
Lucia Stonhouse, 100 ; his
appointments, 113, 134 ; enters
Council, 204, 207, 214 ; with
Hastings at Benares, 222,
222 ral ; rejects Petrie's pro-
posal, 232 ; aids Short, 245 ;
at St. Helena, 274 ; his prospects
of the' Governor-Generalship,
369, 369 ra5, 370, 373, 383, 389 ;
mentioned, xvi, 45, 45 »1, 93,
101, 170, 190, 226, 227, 248.
Vansittart, George Henry ; son of
George Vansittart, 80, 80 nl ;
his illness, 130, 130 to2.
Vansittart, Henry ; his mission to
Sadras, vi, xxxii, 30 k3, 60,
97 Ml ; Governor of Bengal,
viii, 13 ra2, 16 rel ; returns to
England, xix, 13, 13 ra2, 16;
Vansittart, Henry — contd.
a Commissioner for reform, xx,
116, 117 ; his financial em-
barrassments, xxii, 127, 128,
133 ; is lost in the Aurora, xxii,
130, 132, 141, 159, 168, 184 ;
his marriage, 17 nA ; his career,
30 m3 ; his influence, 50, 50 m8 ;
not expected in India, 83, 83 n3 ;
breaks with Clive, 89, 89 nl ; his
house at Blaokheath, 100, 102 ;
portrait of, 1 00 ; sails in the
Aurora, 111, 111 m2, 127; a
Director, 112; expected to
succeed Cartier, 117 ; his son
Henry, 135 ral, 159 ; writes
from Madeira, 138 n\ ; his
appointment of Rennell, 167 wl;
L. Sulivan's debt to, 188, 189 ;
his estate, 225, 241, 242, 248 ;
his house at Madras, 247, 260 ;
his gentle disposition, 307 ;
mentioned, xxvii, 18, 18 n2, 30,
37, 40, 40 Ml, 51, 54, 64, 64 m3,
69, 80, 80 «6, 113, 124 n2, 158.
Vansittart, Henry, jun., son of Gover-
nor Vansittart ; his voyage to
India, xxvii, 159, 163, 168, 170 ;
his proficiency in Persian, xxvii,
219, 220; his opinion of the
Supreme Court, xlvi, 321 ; his
marriage, Iviii, 360, 360 n2 ; his
death, Ixi, 416, 419 ; is designed
for the civil service, 135, 135 n\,
157 ; letters from, 159, 163,
168, 170, 180, 190, 227, 274,
290, 320, 360, 384, 410 ; visits
Madras, 175, 180, 202, 215,
219 ; carries letters, 185 ; stays
with Hastings, 190 ; visits
Patna, 202, 215 ; at Calcutta,
215 ; his sister Emeha, 220 m2 ;
Persian Translator, 227 ; is '
commended, 248 ; accident to,
273 ; mentioned, xiii, Iv, 219,
226, 377.
Vansittart, Henry, tertius : son of
Henry Vansittart, jun., 361.
Vansittart, Mrs. Martha ; mother of
Governor Vansittart, xiii, 130.
See Stonhouse, Martha.
Vansittart, Pvobert ; brother of Gover-
nor Vansittart, 130, 130 nl.
Vansittart, Mrs. Sarah ; wife of George
Vansittart, xiii, xvi ; her chil-
dren, 80, 204; her brother
Thomas, 100 m2, 219; joins
her husband, 207, 214 ; returns
to England, 266, 271 ; men-
tioned, 231, 231 n3. See Ston-
house, Sarah.
474
Vansittart family, 269.
Vansittart & Kennaway ; administer
the estate of R. Palk, jun., Iviii,
Ixi, 362; letters from, 361,
387, 408 ; their claim on Droz,
409 ; mentioned, 381.
VanteUingen, Mr., 64.
Vaughan family, 63.
Vellore ; devastation around, 1 ; de-
fence of, 1, 365 «2 ; detachment
from, 23, 47 ; observation party
at, 44 ; fort of, 165 ; mentioned,
89.
Vellum, 237. See Vallam.
Vengalore, 89. See Bangalore.
Venkata, A. ; letter from, 271.
Venkatachalam, G., 210.
Venkataramaiya, G. ; letter from, 210.
Venkata Ranga Rao, 366.
Venkata Rayalu, 210.
Verelst, Harry ; supports R. Palk,
jun., xvi, xvi nl, 92, 92 re5
Governor of Bengal, xxii, 45 nZ
resigns, 80, 113 ; note on, 80 m8:
his admioistration, 121.
Verney, Ralph, Earl, 188.
Vernon, Admiral Sir Edward ; relieves
Hughes, xlvi, 302 ; is relieved
by Hughes, xlviii, 330, 333 ;
his squadron, 314, 322.
Veypar, Veypur. See Vaippar.
Vibart, Mr. Hugh R., Ixvii.
Vienna, Ixv, 398, 399.
View of Devonshire, Westcote's, 415,
415 wl.
Views ; of Patna and Dinapore, 238 ;
of Hindu Temples, 369, 369 nl,
416.
Villages ; renting of, 97, 310 ; ceded
to the French, 356, 356 k2.
Villenour, Ivi, 356 to2.
ViUupuram, 105.
Vijayanagar, 3 n\.
Vijayapur, Vizapoor, 1 nZ.
Vijayaram Raz, Vijiaram Rauze, 366.
Vizagapatam ; the Investment at,
29, 36, 46, 50; J. Smith as
Chief at, 50 nA, 78, 78 n3 ;
Bengal troops at, 66, 200 ;
Stratton as Chief at, 197, 252,
255 ; zemindaries of, 200 ; S.
Johnson as Chief at, 210 »i3,
252 ; sick quarters at, 261 ;
inaction of Chief and Council,
366 ; united to the Circars,
367 ; Russell as Chief at, 367 ;
Macartney resigns from, 371 ;
mentioned, 199 nl, 365.
Vizapoor. See Vijayapur.
Viziadrug. See Gheriah.
Vizianagram ; rented by Sitaram
Raz, 48 ; Raja of, 65 ; fort of,
366.
Vizier. See Nawab Vizier of Oudh.
Votes, SpUt. See East India Com-
pany.
Vries, Mr. de. See Fries, John de.
Walajah, Nawab ; denounces the
treaty with Haidar, xiv, 99,
106, 107 ; his debts, public and
private, xv, xxiv, xxv, xlviii,
Ux, Ixii, 27, 28, 39, 46, 48, 77,
90, 93, 95, 96, 107, 114, 120,
121, 126, 126 m2, 129, 135, 147,
148, 152, 155, 162, 170, 178, 179,
201, 225, 277, 294, 315, 326,
327, 329. 331, 371, 372, 373, .
374, 380, 393, 401, 410, 414,
417, 418, 419, See also Credi-
tors ; Plenipotentiary at the
court of, XX, 132, 132 w2 ;
thwarts the Government, xx,
1.32, 138, 145, 146, 147, 182,
183 ; desires alliance with
Marathas, xxi, 142, 145, 178,
183 ; urges invasion of Tanjore,
xxiii, 162, 164; British
auxiliary force for, xxiv, 164 ;
makes terms with Tanjore,
xxiv, 166, 172, 174, 177; is
deemed an ally of the Crown,
though subordinate to the
Mogul and Nizam, xxiv, 181 ;
aims at independence, xxiv,
201, 224 ; urges an expedition
against the Maravars, xxvui,
186, 193, 194; attacks and
occupies Tanjore, xxx, 223,
236, 239 ; his treatment of the
Raja of Tanjore, xxx, 277, 278 ;
Maratha demands on, xxxii,
235 ; his designs for Amir-ul-
Umara, xxxiv, 246 ; buys houses
in Fort St. George, xxxiv, 247,
260 ; relinquishes Tanjore Fort
and releases the Raja, xxxix,
264, 266, 268, 276 ; holds the
Maravars prisoners, xxxix, 278 ;
grants tanhas for loans, xl,
283, 308; applies to Hughes
for protection, xl, 276 ; his
sons meet the Majority, xli,
289 ; his attitude to the revo-
lution, xlii, 289, 293, 297 ; his
disapproval of the treaty of
1762, xlii, 279, 305; bis resi-
475
Walajah, Nawab — cont.
dence at Madras, xlii, xJviii,
218, 218 n2, 239, 293, 325,
325 nl ; arrest of his manager,
xliii, 276, 288 ; his agents in
England, xliv, 189 n2, 244, 268,
312 ; his attitude towards
Haidar, xlvii, 106, 145, 183,
256 ; rents the Jaghire, xlviii rel,
327 ; S. Sulivan's opinion of,
xlix, 332 ; assigns his revenues
to the Company, li, 310 m2 ;
complains of Macartney, Iv,
355 ; is aggrieved by transfer of
villages, Ivi, 356 ; restitution
of the Assignment to, Ix, 372,
373, 411 ; letters from, 11, 58,
141, 213, 244, 268, 274, 296,
305, 355 ; his gratitude to
Lawrence, 11, 11 ji3, 12 ; his
titles, 11 re2, 58, 244, 274 ; in-
dependent of the Deccan, 12 ;
his attitude to the Nizam, 25,
36, 36ral, 62; his troops, 26,
27, 201, 249; his gift for
Withecombe, 39, 77, 147 ; at
the Company's Gardens, 41 ;
goes to Arcot, 48 ; his sons,
58 n\, 59 n\ 154, 154 7i2, nZ, 164,
312, 312 n2 ; protects Haidar's
enemies, 61, 61 w3 ; is aided
by Keld Deputies, 71 ; receives
explanation from Manila, 73 ;
Benfield's loans to, 109 n\, 236,
283 ; his share of military
charges, 114; invests with the
Bath, 132 n2, 158; Du Pr^'s
opinion of, 137 ; complains
to the Crown, 140, 140 nl, 186 ;
the King's letters and gifts to,
143 ; his attitude to the
Company, 156, 186, 201, 293,
297, 298 ; letters to, 159, 240 ;
his altercations with Du Pr4,
181 ; his intrigue with the
Marathas, 183, 184; acquires
Maravan territory, 194, 218 ;
claims aid against the Poligars,
194 ; his military successes,
201 ; mode of addressing, 209 ;
excuses Johnson's debt, 216 ;
claims aid against the Dutch,
224 ; his relations with British
officers, 224, 225; settles
Dutch claims, 237 ; negotiates
with Raghoba, 237 ; confers
with Pigot, 257, 284; his
envoy at Poona, 258 ; is
reluctant to restore Tanjore,
263, 265, 267, 268, 269, 276,
283 ; cost of Tanjore conquest,
Walajah, Nawab — cord.
269 ; Macpherson's memorial
to, 270 ; is commended by
Hughes, 273 ; complains of
Pigot, 275, 284, 301, 305, 306 ;
relies on Palk, 275 ; desirable-
ness of a treaty between the
Company and, 302 ; D'Fries's
views about, 307 ; his cut-
cherry, 310 ; his Diwan, 310 »2 ;
is excluded from treaty with
Tipu, 358 ; visits Sheveram,
391 ; illness of, 414 ; men-
tioned, xii, 20, 89, 139, 180,
211, 259, 316. See Muhammad
Ali.
Walajabad ; cantonment at, Ixii, 392,
392 ml.
Waller, Mr., 188.
Wandewash ; defended in 1781 by
Flint, 1; battle of, in 1760,
8m5, 12 n2.
Wapping, 91 m2.
Warangal, xv, 199.
Ward, Colonel Francis Swain ; his
Views of Temples, ILx, 416,
416 nl ; letter from, 369 ; note
on, 369 nl.
Wareham, 86.
Wargaon, Convention of, xlvi, 310 nl.
WarriarpoUam, 26.
Warriore, 176.
Water supply of Madras ; Baker's
scheme for, xxxv, 171 w3, 195.
Watts, Mrs. Frances (" Begum John-
son "), 133.
Watson, Admiral Charles ; letter to,
X. 1 ; at Gheriah, x, 5 re6, 52 n2 ;
his capture of Calcutta, 52 m2 ;
mentioned, 83 to5.
Watson, Colonel Henry ; owner of
the Surprise, lii, 340, 344, 345,
346 ; his plea disallowed, 361,
362.
Webber, William, ix, 15, 15 nl.
Webster, Messrs. James and David ;
letter to, 336 ; Burt reports to,
340 ; mentioned, liii, 346.
Webster, Mr., 323.
Welland, Abraham ; reduction of his
salary, Iviii, 376 ; criticizes
Macpherson and Stables, Ux ;
letters from, 357, 369, 376, 378 ;
note on, 357 nl ; legacy for,
382 ; mentioned, Iv.
Welland, Grace ; sister of (Sir) R.
Palk, xxxvi, 357 nl. See Palk,
Grace.
Welland, Richard, sen., iv, 254 nl.
Welland, Lieut. Richard, R.N. ; a
naval cadet, xxxvi, 256 ; appre-
476
Welland, Lieut., Richard — cont.
oiation of, xlix, 263, 263 mI,
273, 273 ral, 301, 333; his
financial difficulties, Iviii, 369,
408; letters from, 254, 288;
note on, 254 n\ ; promoted
midshipm,an, 288, 301 ; pro-
moted lieutenant, 331, 333 ;
mentioned, 330, 357 n\.
Welland, Robert, 288.
Welsford (or Welshford), Mr. ; a
cadet, 84, 84 ml, 99, 99 Ml.
West, Admiral Temple, 6.
Westcote, Thomas, 415, 415 wl.
Westcott, Charles, 147, 147 n\.
Westphalia, Ixvi, 412.
Wheeler, Mr. Stephen, Ixvii.
Wheler, Edward ; member of the
Supreme Council, xlv ; his
death, Iviii, lix, 361, 369,
369 m3 ; mentioned, 15, 15 »1.
White Town, Madras (i.e. Fort St.
George). See Madras. See Port
St. George.
Whitehill, John ; sails for England,
xxxvii, 265, 265 wL 270, 271;
returns to Madras and forms a
Government, xliv, 314, 321 ; is
relieved by Rumbold, xlv ; is
again provisional Governor,
xlviii, xlix, 1, 329, 331 ; sus-
pended by Hastings, 1, 146 n\ ;
note on, 29 re2 ; envoy to
Hyderabad, 88, 88 m2 ; Chief
at Masulipatam, 265, 269,
269 Ml ; uncle of Mrs. Draper,
27], 271 m4 ; responsible for
Tom Palk, 272; mentioned,
29, 100, 330.
Whitehill, Thomas, xxxvii, 271 k4.
Whitehill, Miss, xxxvii.
Whytle, Councillor, 88. See Whitehill,
John.
Widdicombe, Mary, iv, 16 m2.
Widdioombe, Thomasine, iv.
Willet, Mr., 154.
Williams, Alexander, 75 n\.
Williams, John, 388, 388 ral.
Williamson, Elizabeth, 55 tc2.
Winchester school, 124 ?i2.
Winder, Thomas, 352, 352 m4.
Winds ; land, 40 ; longshore, 48,
48 «4.
Wine ; madeira, 113, 141, 173.
Winsor family, 245.
Winter, Sir Edward, 298 m2.
Witheoombe, Thomas, 39 «1, 382.
Withecombe, Mr. ; Walajah's gift on
account of, 39, 39 m1, 77, 96,
129, 147.
Wombwell, George, 323, 323 n2.
Wongole, 248. See Ongole.
Wood, Colonel John ; commands in
the Baramahal, xiv, xv, 82,
87, 88, 89, 166 nl ; is recalled
and courtmartialed, xiv, 82 k2,
114, 115, 117, 121, 365 »2; is
acquitted but dismissed, xxi,
121, 148; note on, 82 )i2 ; his
resignation expected, 85 ; a
relative of L. Sulivan, 117 ; his
disputes with Government, 126.
is restored, 162, 171 ;
Wood, Captain Robert ; accompanies
Pigot to Tanjore, 277, 280;
Town Major of Port St. George,
277 n2, 294 ; aide-de-camp to the
Governor, 279.
Wood, Mrs., 79.
WooUey, James, 332, 332 w3.
Worangal, 67.
Worthies of England, Thomas Fuller's,
415.
Wrey, Sir Bourchier ; his engagement
and marriage, x, Ixiv, 375,
389, 389 Ml ; mentioned, 396,
396 Ml, 402, 416.
Wrey, Lady, 416. See Palk, Anne
(Nancy). '
Writer ; pay of a montlily, 98 ; pay
of a covenanted, 108.
Writers' Buildings, Calcutta, 361. 379.
Wycombe, John Petty, Earl, 388, 389,
395.
Wynch, Alexander ; provisional Gover-
nor of Madras, xxix, 195,
196, 198, 207, 210, 212, 214,
216, 218, 240 ; his career, xxx,
74 m4, 210 Ml ; opposes the
Nawab, xxxiv, 246 ; fails to
inspire . respect, xxxvi, 255
Baker's opinion of, xlv, 256,
316; at Teneriffe, 74; his
notice of Tom Palk, 75, 81
agent for R. Palk, 96, 111, 196,
212 ; Chief at Masulipatam, 99
174, 197 ; letter from, 132
at Rajahmundry, 160 ; G
Smith's representation to, 217
appoints Tom Palk, 218
awaits Pigot's arrival, 251
Chokappa's opinion of, 254
delivers charge to Pigot, 257
258, 260, 265 ; sails for England,
266, 269 ; Tom Palk's debt to
266, 272 ; at St. Helena, 274
supports Benfield, 283 ; appeal
to, 366 ; mentioned, xiii, 94.
Wynch, Lieut. Alexander, 75 m1, 133.
Wynch, Mrs. Plorentia, 75, 81, 133,
216. See Cradook, Plorentia.
Wynch, George, 132, 132 m3.
477
Wynoh, Robert, 133.
Wynch, Sophia, 133.
Wynch, William ; describes financial
conditions in Madras, Ivii, 364 ;
visits Bengal, 133, 133 nl ;
letter from, 364, 364 n2.
Wyndham, Charles, Earl of Egre-
mont, 9.
Young, William, servant of R. Palk
jun.; his adventures in Ireland,
Uv, Iv, 350 ; his list of stores,
339, 349 ; letters from, 349, 350 ;
draws a bill, 351 ; is arrested as
a highwayman, 253.
Yusuf Khan. See Muhammad Yusuf.
Yarde, Lieut. John ; note on, 80 re2 ;
leaves Calcutta, 131, 131 »2 ;
letter from, 282 ; mentioned,
80.
Yolland Hill, Ashburton, 113 »i4, 231,
231 to2.
Yonge, Sii' Geoi^e, Secretary for War,
420.
York, F"rederick, Duke of, Ixvi, 405,
406.
Zemindars of the Circars ; oppose
British forces, 23, 23 n4, 67;
submission of, 48, 133 ; oppres-
sion of, 328, 365, 365 »3, 366,
367.
Zemindars of Ganjam ; control of,
200, 201 ; summoned to Madras,
323.
Zoloo. See Sulu.
Zummabundy, 133. See Jamabandi.
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LIST OF REPORTS ISSUED.
{Sine, E"cap to Ninth Report, Part III., inclusive ; after that Svo.)
(Dates in parentheses shows years of Reprints.)
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1870
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First Report, W[th A.ppesdix
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Price.
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Report, Name of Owner of MSS., &c.
Price.
1871
Second Report, with Appendix, and Index
TO THE First and Second Reports.
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. (2.) ., „ Vol. II.
(3.) „ „ Vol. III. ...
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Fifteenth Report
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(5.) Right Hon. F. J. Savile Poljambe ...
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Cd. 930
1 10
Cd. 930-i
1 11
Cd. 1827
1 1
C. 9245
2 0
Cd. 4774
0 Hi
Cd. 929
1 7
Cd. 1691
1 10
Cd. 1963
2 0
Cd. 3008
3 0
Cd. 4116
2 10
Cd. 5288
2 6
Cd. 6255
2 6
Cd. 1892
110
Cd. 5038
1 6
C. 9466
2 9
Cd. 676
1 9
Cd. 783
2 3
Cd. 3475
1 10
0. 9469
1 3
C. 9470
3 1
Cd. 2233
2 6
Cd. 2211
2 4
Cd. 3670
2 5
Cd. 6290
1 11
Cd. 5732
2 7
Cd. 7105
2 8
14
Date
of
Issue.
Report, Name of owner of MSS., &c.
BOriBG
1899
1900
1900
1900
1901
1903
1904
1907
1909
1910
1914
1913
1902
1904
1907
1910
1912
1916
1902
1904
1907
1908
F. W. Leyborne-Popham
Mrs. Frankland-Russell-Astley
Lord Montagu of Beaulieu
Beverley Corporation
Report on Various Collections. Vol. I.
Corporations of Berwick-on-Tweed, Bur-
' ford and Lostwithiel ; Counties of Wilts
and 'Worcester; Bishop of Chichester ;
Deans and Chapters of Chichester, Can-
terbury and Salisbury.
Report on Various Collections. Vol. II.
Sir George Wombwell ; Duke of Norfolk ;
•Lord Edmund Talbot (the Shrewsbury
Papers) ; Miss Buxton ; Mrs. Harford ;
Mrs. Wentworth, of Woolley.
Report on Various Collections. Vol. III.
T. B. Clarke-Thornhill ; Sir T. Barrett-
Lennard, Bart. ; R. Pelham ; W.
Papillon ; W. Cleverley Alexander.
Report on Various Collections. Vol. IV.
Bishop of Salisbury ; Bishop of Exeter ;
Dean and .Chapter of Exeter ; Earl of
Leicester ; Sir W. Clayton, Bart. ;
Major Money-Kyrle ; P. H. T. Jervbise ;
G-lemham Hall ; Corporations of Salis-
bury, Orford and Aldeburgh.
Report on Various Collections. Vol. V.
Colonel Mordauut Hay, of Duns Castle ;
Sir Archibald Edmonstone. of Dun-
treaih ; ISir John Graham, of Fintry,
K.C.M.G.
Report on Various Collections. Vol. VI.
Miss M. Eyre Matoham ; Captain H. V.
Knox ; C. Wykeham -Martin ; .K. B.
Tighe ; Lord Oranmore and Browne.
Report on Various Collections. Vol. VII. ...
Bishop of London ; St. George's Chapel,
Windsor ; Corporations of Beccles, Dun-
wich, Southwold and Thetford ; Duke
of Norfolk ; Earl of Essex'; Sir Hervey
Bruce ; Col. Frewen ; H. C. Staunton ;
F. Merttens.
Report oil Various Collections. Vol. VIII.
Hon. Frederick Lindley Wood ; M. L. S.
Clements ; S. Philip Unwin.
The Stuarts Manuscripts at Windsor Castle,
belonging to His Majesty the King, Vol. I.
„ Vol. II.
Vol. III.
Vol. IV.
Vol. V.
Vol. VI.
Milne-Home of Wedderburn
Colonel
Castle,
David ~
N.B.
Marquess of Bath,
at Longleat Vol. I.
Vol. IL
Vol. in.
(Prior Papers.)
No. of
Paper.
Price.
C. 9471
Cd. 282
Cd. 283
Cd. 284
Cd. 784
Cd. 932
Cd. 1964
Cd. 3218
Cd. 4600
Cd. 4382
Cd. 6722
Cd. 6639
Cd. 927
Cd. 2189
Cd. 3430
Cd. 5046
Cd. 6163
Cd. 7104
Cd. 931
Cd. 2048
Cd. 3474
Cd. 3849
s. d.
1 6
2 0
1 1
1 0
2 0
2 4
1 6
1 9
1 4
2 3
2 4
2 9
2 11
2 9
2 10
2 9
1 9
1 0
2 5
15
Date
of
Issue.
Report, Name of Owner of MSS., &c.
Price.
1204 American Manuscripts in the Royal Institu-
tion of Great Britain. Vol. I.
1906 „ „ Vol. II
1907 „ „ Vol. m
1909 „ „ Vol. IV
1904 Sixteenth Report (containing a, list of the
owners of Manuscripts upon whose collec-
tions Reports have been made to July,
1904).
1904 Earl of Mar and Kellie, at Alloa House, N.B.
1905 Lady Du Cane
1905 I Marquess of Lothian, at Blickling Hall
1905 Earl of Egmont. Vol. I. Part I
1905 „ Vol. L Part IJ
1909 „ Vol. n
1905 Duke of Rutland. Vol. IV
1906 Earl of Verulam
1906 Franciscan MSS. at the Convent, Merchants'
Quay, Dublin.
1907 Dean and Chapter of Wells. Vol. I
1914 „ „ Vol. IL
1907 Earl of Ancaster, at Grimsthorpe
1907 Seventeenth Report (containing a list of the
owners of Manuscripts upon whose collec-
tions Reports have been made to June,
1907).
1911 Lord Polwarth. Vol. I
1916 ,. „ Vol. n
1911 Earl of Denbigh. (Part V.)
1911 Lord Middleton
1911 Pepys' MSS. at Magdalene College, Cambridge
1913 Allan George Finch. Vol. I
1914 Laing MSS. in the University of Edinburgh.
Vol. I.
1916 City of Exeter
1914 Guide to the Reports on collections of Manu-
scripts issued by the Royal Commissioners
for Historical Manuscripts. Part I. —
Topographical.
1917 Eighteenth Report (containing a list of the
owners of Manuscripts upon whose collec-
tions Reports have been made to July,
1916).
1920 Earl of Egmont. Vol. L, 1730-1733
1920 Marquess of Ormonde, K.P. New Series.
Vol. vin.
Cd. 2201
Cd. 2897
Od. 3669
Cd. 4773
Cd. 2209
Cd. 2190
Cd. 2367
Cd. 2319
Cd. 2318
Cd. 2570
Cd. 4599
Cd. 26U6
Cd. 2973
Cd. 2867
Cd. 2810
Cd. 7106
Cd. 3429
Cd. 3737
Cd.
5289
2
11
Cd.
7593
2
10
Cd.
5565
1
7
Cd.
5567
3
0
Cd.
5721
1
7
Cd.
6508
2
8
Cd.
6905
2
6
Cd.
7640
2
3
Cd.
7594
L
0
Cd. 8364
Cd. 8264
Cd. 284
s. d.
2 3
2 6
1 11
2 3
0 9
2 11
3 10
2 7
0 4
1 9
2 0
4 0
Prinfecl by His MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE.
HISTOKICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
REPORT
ON THE
PALK MANUSCRIPTS
IN THE Possession of Mrs. Bannatyne,
OF Haldon, Devon.
LONDON !
PTJBLISHED BY HIS MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE.
To be purchased through any Bookseller or directly from
H.M. STATIONERY OFFICE at the foUowing addresses :
IMPEBIAL House, Kingswat, Loistoon, ■W.0.2, and
28, Abinodon Street, London, S.W.I. ;
37, Phteb Street, Maij chesteb ;
1, St. Andrew's Crescent, Cardiff ;
23, Forth Street, Edinburgh ;
or from E, PONSONBY, Ltd., 116, Grafton Street, Dublin.
1922. '^M
Price 12s. Qd. Net.
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